TORONTO, Sept. 7, 2012 /CNW/ - Communications, Energy and Paperworkers Union of Canada (CEP) members will be holding a nightly information picket at TIFF's red carpet events. Members of CEP local 79-M have been locked out for two months in a bid to get a first collective agreement from Bell, the lead sponsor of TIFF.
"Bell is building a media empire yet it is refusing to negotiate a first collective agreement with workers in its newest media sector" said Barb Dolan, CEP Administrative Vice-President for the Ontario Region. "These workers will be taking the opportunity to talk to the public during this high-profile event Bell sponsors, to explain the difficulties they are experiencing in trying to achieve a fair contract."
Bell's initial lock out was declared illegal by the Canada Industrial Relations Board. The company has presented a non-negotiable final offer that includes terms worse than what the 112 employees currently have. The highly profitable corporation is pushing for a wage grid and seniority rights that would allow them to lay off senior workers at will while hiring lower paid newer staff.
"Bell's position suggests they simply do not recognize the workers' right to bargain collectively," said Mike Kachurowski, CEP National Representative.
SOURCE: COMMUNICATIONS, ENERGY AND PAPERWORKERS UNION OF CANADA
For more information go to www.CEP79m.ca or contact Mike Kachurowski at 416 434-1410.
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