The Ontario Federation of Labour (OFL), on behalf of 54 unions and one million workers across Ontario, stands in solidarity with port workers in BC, Montreal, and Quebec City. These workers’ constitutionally protected right to strike was undermined this week by Labour Minister Steven MacKinnon’s decision to impose binding arbitration. The OFL joins unions across Canada in calling on the government to respect the Canada Labour Code and allow for a fair collective bargaining process that respects workers and ensures they receive their fair share in an era of record corporate profits.
“In the case of the Port of Montreal, the employer locked out workers and requested government intervention before even attempting to return to the bargaining table,” said Laura Walton, OFL President. “This is a shocking move that is concerning for all workers.”
Port employers have refused to engage in good-faith negotiations despite making record-breaking profits throughout the pandemic. Now, as port workers are asking for what they deserve – fair wages, job security, and safe working conditions – their rights are being trampled on.
“Workers deserve their fair share in an era of extraordinary corporate wealth,” said Walton. “The only way to ensure workers get a fair deal is through free and fair collective bargaining.”
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