Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16 Page 17 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20 Page 21 Page 22 Page 23 Page 24 Page 25 Page 26 Page 27 Page 28 Page 29 Page 30 Page 31 Page 32 Page 33 Page 34 Page 35 Page 36 Page 37 Page 38 Page 39 Page 40 Page 41 Page 42 Page 43 Page 44 Page 45 Page 46 Page 47 Page 48 Page 49 Page 50 Page 51 Page 52 Page 53 Page 54 Page 55 Page 56 Page 57 Page 58 Page 59 Page 604 FOCUS - APRIL 2017 Events far from his own doing would define the next, and most re- cent, phase of his remarkable career. “In early 2015, the RCMP exec- uted a search warrant at the Ont- ario Provincial Police Association (OPPA) – our Union – office. Allega- tions of fraud and theft followed against its top echelon. Just as importantly the Membership of the OPPA was very concerned during this time.” Into the leadership vacuum left by the scandal stepped Rob Jamieson. His personally-funded mid-2015 campaign for President of the Association would ultimately prove successful. The election left him in charge of the professional lives of some 6,200 OPP officers, 3,600 civil- ian employees, plus 3,500 retirees. “I ensured transparency in my campaign. When I went to meet the membership, the funding came from my personal finances. And I wasn’t around when that alleged activity occurred, and I’m sure that made me an attractive candidate as well.” The OPPA President’s job is im- mense in scope. “We represent our members in contract negotiations, administer their benefits, work with the Pension Board, and provide non-partisan po- litical advocacy with governments at the municipal, provincial, and federal level. “We also sit on many committees within the OPP: Health and Safety, Clothing and Equipment, Northern Issues. Anything which affects our membership.” A strong philosophy forms the foundation for Rob’s administration. “I believe it’s better to work together, because a tension-filled environment isn’t as productive,” he says. “The process is as impor- tant as the outcome, so when we do disagree, it’s all in how we do that. It has to be respectful.” The Association has also faced a public and very sensitive contro- versy, when Pride Toronto’s execu- tive agreed with Black Lives Matter to ban police from future parades. “That decision was very disap- pointing, because as an Associa- tion, we’re committed to diversity and inclusion. We don’t want to be bystanders.” Internally, he has also begun healing the organization’s wounds. “We’ve started strategic planning to define the Association’s mission and its values. That will provide a roadmap for the next three to five years.” “In 2016 the OPPA success- fully negotiated a contract for their Members with the Provincial Government.” It was a great team effort which resulted in a successful settlement for the membership. With commitments in all corners of the province in corridors of influ- ence, Rob readily admits he could not do his job effectively without support within the Association. As well, he credits strong personal support for his success. “I couldn’t do it without the help of my team at the Association. I’m fortunate to have a very supportive Rob receiving the President’s Award from Dr. Rosehart, President of Lakehead University, in May 1994. Rob Jamieson (continued from page 3) Rob’s official start with the OPP in July 1995. 905.985.8807 68 Water Street, Port Perry FREE CoFFEE TasTing April 1 from 11 a.m.- 4 p.m. Receiveagiftcertificatewithpurchaseof1poundofcoffee! Conveniently located at: