MEDIA ADVISORY: OPSEU/SEFPO Local 389 LifeLabs workers hold rally to demand fair treatment

BARRIE, ON, Nov. 14, 2023 /CNW/ - OPSEU/SEFPO Local 389, representing nearly 100 dedicated employees of Lifelabs LP, is holding a rally to demand a fair and just collective agreement for Lifelabs LP employees. The rally aims to highlight the importance of these healthcare workers and address current workplace issues, including site closures, altered hours, and workplace harassment and discrimination.

DATE: November 15, 2023
TIME: 12 noon - 1 p.m.
LOCATION: LifeLabs located at 121 Wellington St W, Suite 104, Barrie, ON

Members of OPSEU/SEFPO Local 389 are essential members of the community who serve as Lab Patient Technicians, Mobile Lab Patient Technicians, and Medical Lab Assistants in various locations, including the cities of Barrie and Orillia, as well as the townships of Wasaga Beach, Collingwood, Clearview, and CFB Borden.

The employer just announced the temporary closure of the O'Brian location in Orillia and have altered the hours of operation at the Huronia and CFB Borden locations in Barrie. These closures have been blamed on staff even though seven open positions remain unfilled by the employer. 

"Closing the doors to vital healthcare services and altering hours of operation during a staffing crisis raises serious questions about the employer's commitment to staff and our community," said OPSEU/SEFPO Local 389 President Renee Aiken-Kearsley, "These closures are being used as a scare tactic to force reductions in sick time. We are not only fighting for fair treatment but also for the right to be heard and represented in negotiations. Our community deserves better."

The public rally will provide an opportunity for members, supporters, and the community to come together and show solidarity in the fight for fair treatment and a renewed Collective Agreement that respects the rights and dignity of these essential healthcare workers.

SOURCE Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU/SEFPO)

Local 389 President Renee Aiken-Kearsley, [email protected]; Justin Stayshyn, OPSEU/SEFPO Communications Officer, 647-209-5878; [email protected]