IBEW Local Union 1620 Celebrates 70th Anniversary

Aug 19, 2019

On August 15, 2019, IBEW Local Union 1620 reached an exciting milestone as they celebrated their 70th anniversary!  That is 70 years of advocating on behalf of members, ensuring fairness in the workplace and embracing comradery within the IBEW.

On August 15, 1949, IBEW Local Union 1620 was established within the IBEW and given jurisdiction for utility work for the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Back in 1949, there were employment issues relating to employer work locations. With strong worker support, especially from lineman, a meeting was held by eight workers at 148 Pleasant Street in St. John’s, NL, led by Richard (Dick) Murphy.  They organized a discussion meeting and this group made the necessary registration to the Department of Labour and became certified under the IBEW; they were then chartered by the IBEW as Local Union 1620.  The hard work of Local 1620 members from 1949 propelled them on a path to success and growth. The IBEW whole-heartedly thanks them for their courage and foresight.

Please take a moment to review Local 1620’s 1949 IBEW charter attached and read each name. These workers were instrumental in the Local’s formation. Once formed, Dick then became Local 1620’s first President and was sworn into office at their first Local Union meeting on August 24, 1949.

Under Brother Murphy’s leadership, Local 1620 went on to negotiate its first collective agreement with Newfoundland Light and Power Co. Ltd.  He provided energetic, sensible guidance for the Union and established a great rapport with the company; because of this, wages and working conditions were improved.

Since then IBEW Local Union 1620 has grown and made many working improvements and a special thanks to all the past Local 1620 leaders, as the Local has come a long way and their benefits are better than ever.

Source