March 21 2024

The National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE) urges Ontario Premier Doug Ford to stop interfering in union activities and instead, directly address, the workers’ questions about his privatization agenda. 

In the middle of bargaining with LCBO workers, represented by OPSEU/SEFPO, Premier Ford used a press conference to publicly attack OPSEU leadership and attempted to interfere with the democratic election process at the upcoming convention. OPSEU/SEFPO, a Component union of NUPGE has decided to file a complaint with the Labour Board for unfair labour practice, and the National Union supports this decision.

NUPGE President, Bert Blundon, says he is dismayed by the Premier’s actions. “This is simply unacceptable,” Blundon said “It’s clearly an attempt to undermine the solidarity and bargaining power of Ontario workers, especially those at the LCBO currently negotiating a new agreement. But it also shows reckless disregard for workers’ collective rights, and it’s a violation of fundamental labour law.”

Blundon said this is why NUPGE supports OPSEU/SEFPO’s decision to file a complaint with the Labour Board. “Labour legislation is clear in prohibiting employer interference in union activities. Premier Ford needs to understand he does not get to pick union leaders, in this or in any other instance. Union members decide democratically who their leaders are.” 

He added that he hopes the complaint will help protect workers’ rights and stop employer interference from becoming common place in Ontario. “Ultimately, LCBO workers are raising important questions at the bargaining table, and they deserve serious answers, not diversions.”