Statement by Bea Bruske: Canada’s unions stand in solidarity with CUPE Ontario education workers in the face of Ford’s legislative attacks

Bea Bruske, President of the Canadian Labour Congress, released the following statement in support of Ontario’s education professionals’ rights to fair bargaining.

“The Ford government’s decision to introduce legislation to force the lowest-paid education workers back to work and refusal to negotiate is more proof that he is not on the side of workers. The Ford government has a long track record of trampling over workers’ rights. This is the third time this government has introduced legislation directly impacting workers.

“In the current affordability crisis, Ford and Lecce’s bill means these workers will have to decide between buying groceries or buying clothes for their children, causing 55,000 essential education workers further hardship on the brink of a recession. These frontline heroes have cared for, supported and helped our kids through the past two years. They deserve better.

“Ford’s legislative attack on workers is relentless. The Ontario government is well aware that this legislation is a direct violation of the rights of workers. Using the notwithstanding clause to rob workers of the right to free and fair collective bargaining is despicable. 

“Canada’s unions urge the Ford government to get back to the bargaining table and offer these workers the fair deal they deserve. We stand in solidarity with CUPE members ready to go on strike this Friday, in their battle for long overdue wage increases and better working conditions.”

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