As many of you know, OPSEU/SEFPO Local 5119 members working as couriers and mail room clerks for LifeLabs in the GTA have been in negotiations to secure a first-contract since May 31st, 2021.
Unfortunately, after several days of conciliation, including back-to-back days of intense negotiations this week, the parties have now reached an impasse. As such, the OPSEU/SEFPO bargaining team has formally requested a no-board, which sets the stage to move into a strike position.
Ontario labour law stipulates that the release of the no-board notice by the Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development begins the 17-day countdown to the date on which the union, or the employer, can begin a legal work stoppage. While the date has not yet been confirmed, the strike deadline date is likely to come mid-March.
During this time, the parties can continue to negotiate in an effort to secure a deal prior to the strike deadline. OPSEU/SEFPO members working as LifeLabs couriers and mail room clerks continue to demand improved working conditions, fair wages and benefits, and respect – it’s why they joined OPSEU/SEFPO and it’s what they will continue to push for in the face of an obstinate employer.
LifeLabs is renowned for its underhanded and anti-union tactics – making every round of bargaining difficult. Yet, despite this, the members at Local 5119 continue to push for solid contract gains that will improve their working conditions for years to come, and support improved recruitment and retention, which has been a significant obstacle – especially during the pandemic.
This Sunday, February 20 from 10 a.m. until 12 p.m. (noon) there will be a Strike Info and Bargaining Update meeting, which will take place by Zoom. All members of OPSEU/SEFPO local 5119 are encouraged to join, and the login details will be distributed shortly by email.
Please stay tuned as we will be sharing more updates in the coming days and weeks.