The morning started with George explaining the differences in establishing discipline between union and non-union workplaces. In the non-union world, there is no basis to dispute the discipline unless it violates the law. In the union world, discipline must be for just cause and may be appealed to arbitration.

The best piece of advice, whether supervising in a non-union or union facility, always make notes either during or immediately after the interview and always keep the originals. Do not use more discipline than it takes to correct the employee from reoffending.

The principle of correction:

• People with good recent records generally will require less discipline
• People with poor recent records tend to be "immune" and may require more discipline
• Progresssive discipline: if lesser penalties have been tried without success, you can move up the line.
• Unplanned, impulsive acts are less likely to reoccur than premeditated ones.
• Acts that were provoked are less likely to reoccur than unprovoked ones.

After the presentation, the group talked with George about various issues and examples. "What if", "How can" and "Can we" led the series of questions pertaining to absenteeism, abuse of personal time, doctor's notes, neglecting company policies and employment contracts/agreements and dealing with difficult employees.

After all the questions were answered the group was given a tour of Clow's facility where their main product fire hydrants, are produced.  Originally owned by Thomas McAvity  and called the T. McAvity & Sons company, Clow still produces some of the McAvity line of hydrants.

The McAvity name remains well-known today, with products still in service that were first installed in the early 1900s. McAvity's long-standing reputation makes McAvity fire hydrants and valves the choice of many municipalities today. The McAvity name is instilled in the minds of the people of Saint John as it played a large role in the city's development from the early 1800s, and will always be an important part of Saint John's history.

Thank you to Frank and Ken at Clow Canada for hosting a great event and to George Raine for an informative morning.