ments, while providing a competitive environment for contractors and work- ers who play by the rules. Business manager Jack Oliveira says Local 183 looks for “contractors who do not comply with collective agreements. It is through this enforce- ment that we are able to prevent an imbalance in the field.” By creating a level playing field based on the terms and conditions of employment in the collective agree- ments that are in place, LIUNA Local 183 ensures both the law and the col- lective agreements are adhered to for the benefit of workers and contractors. To support its growing member- ship, a recent renovation at LIUNA Local 183’s Toronto head office ex- panded the parking area to add addi- tional spaces, as well as safety components including directional sig- nage to help with the busy location. Local 183 acquired land in Vaughan and will be looking at expanding to a larger facility there. The local has also acquired a 40,000 sq. ft. office in Bar- rie which will include a number of member services including a training centre. With the recent municipal election, LIUNA and Local 183 worked hard lob- bying on behalf of politicians who share the union’s goals and ideas. Many of the supported politicians were elected which will help the local continue to move issues forward. Supporting its members, Local 183 also boasts an in-house WSIB claims administration service, which looks after workers from start to finish. The union's legal department, with five dedicated lawyers and support staff, can handle challenging issues at the level of some of Ontario's best labour law practices. LIUNA Local 183 also supports the community at large, fundraising and donating to local charities including Sick Kids Foundation and St. John’s Rehab Foundation, among others. Since 2011 more than $1,000,000 has been donated through these initia- tives. During the past year the union has also distributed $430,000 in schol- arships. For more information on LIUNA Local 183, visit www.liunalocal183.ca. BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS The FIRST FSC ® Certified Printer in North America! Canada’s FIRST 100% Green Energy Printer! The Canadian Design and Construction Report — Winter 2015 – 63