(TORONTO ) – Yesterday workers at Fred Victor Centre in Toronto delivered a 75 percent strike mandate to Local 509 of the Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU). A large majority of the front-line staff came out and voted in favor of authorizing their bargaining team the right to call a strike if necessary after their employer filed a no board report, potentially leading to a lockout on March 26th.
Over 80 people representing community allies from across Toronto came to offer their full support to Fred Victor frontline workers yesterday. John Cartwright, President of The Toronto and York Labour Council reinforced that the dignity and respect provided to Fred Victor clients must also be extended to Fred Victor frontline workers.
“These hard-working individuals deserve a fair first contract,” said OPSEU President Warren (Smokey) Thomas. “It is insulting that the employer would put nothing but zeros on the table and then request the no board report to pressure the workers to accept.”
“We want to make sure that Mark Aston gets the message to seal the deal when both parties return to the bargaining table on March 22nd,” said OPSEU Regional Vice President Nancy Pridham. “Frontline workers at Fred Victor are passionate about advocating for their clients and it is unjust for the employer to deny them the respect they rightfully deserve.”
Fred Victor Centre is a non-profit agency that provides a wide range of programs and housing support services to people experiencing homelessness.
More information:
Sean WIlson, OPSEU Negotiator 1-800-268-7376 Suham Khaledi, OPSEU local 509 President [email protected]