OPSEU/SEFPO is outraged by news that Premier Doug Ford’s government intends to axe 30 roles at the Ontario Science Centre (OSC), which represents a cut of 18 per cent.
Staff were informed today that the current complement of 166 unionized employees will be reduced to 136 workers due to “organizational changes” including the elimination of the standalone Science Unit.
“How can you have an Ontario Science Centre with no Science Unit?” said Raluca Ellis, President of OPSEU/SEFPO Local 549, representing workers at the OSC. “With these job cuts, over 540 years of combined service would be eliminated.”
Only one staff member affected by the cuts has been offered alternative permanent employment within the public service.
In September 2024, Ford promised that no one working at the Ontario Science Centre would be left jobless following its sudden closure.
Two years ago, the Ford government abruptly announced the shuttering of the Ontario Science Centre at 770 Don Mills Road. The government cited a potential issue with the roof during heavy snowfalls that affected no more than six per cent of tiles and presented no immediate danger, according to engineers.
“I’m tired of the lies from this premier,” said OPSEU/SEFPO President JP Hornick. “He lied to the public about the need to close the building and he lied to workers about protecting their jobs.”
“There is a painful irony to the fact that the Ontario Science Centre has been one of greatest victims of Ford’s ‘alternative’ facts. The Ontario Science Centre exists to inspire a passion among children, families, and the general public for evidence-led discovery. Some of the people losing their jobs have been supporting this mission for over 35 years,” added Hornick.
“The roof of the Ontario Science Centre has withstood two winters and a recent heavy storm that caused serious damage to other structures such as the Rogers Stadium in North York. Ford’s commitments to the people of Ontario have proven to be much more fragile,” said Hornick.
After Ford’s government ruled out immediate job losses in 2024, over 50 food service workers were laid off four days later, followed by 28 cleaning staff, and the departure of at least 34 directly employed staff whose roles have not been replaced.
Ontario Science Centre staff have continued to deliver programming through smaller pop-up spaces at locations including Sherway Gardens, the Harbourfront Centre, and the CNE. Staff also go directly into schools.
Construction on a new permanent location for the Ontario Science Centre began in May on the grounds of the former Ontario Place. The government has committed to keep the Harbourfront Centre site open until the expected completion in 2029.
“Doug Ford needs to step in to fix this situation. If he wants to cosplay as Captain Canada in order to fight the threat of Trump’s tariffs, he needs to start by honouring his word to protect jobs here in Ontario,” said Hornick.