Catholic Teachers donate over $43,000 to support striking Porter workers

TORONTO, April 22, 2013 /CNW/ - The Ontario English Catholic Teachers' Association (OECTA), together with local OECTA units, have donated over $43,000 to support striking Porter Airlines employees.

The workers, who are members of the Canadian Office and Professional Employees Union (COPE) Local 343, have been on strike since January 10, 2013. OECTA demonstrated support to Porter workers by joining them in a peaceful protest at Toronto Island's Billy Bishop Airport and donating almost $1 per member to support COPE members; monies pledged at OECTA's March 2013 AGM.

OECTA stands in solidarity with COPE workers as they strive to obtain safer working conditions and a living wage through a fair and just collective agreement with Porter Airlines. Despite the ongoing and unaddressed labour issues, the airline recently announced plans to spend over $2 billion to purchase new Bombardier jets and expand its routes.

"The tenacity and bravery of these workers teaches us all that what's right is worth standing up for," says Kevin O'Dwyer, OECTA president. "We are proud to provide our support, enabling them to continue with their quest for fair wages and safe working conditions."

For more information about their strike action, or to donate, visit www.dontflyporter.com

OECTA represents the 45,000 professional women and men who teach all grades in publicly funded English Catholic schools in Ontario.

 

SOURCE: Ontario English Catholic Teachers' Association

contact: Michelle Despault, Director of Communications
416-925-2493 ext 509, [email protected]