Media Advisory: "Our Safety Matters" solidarity costume rally to support workers fired for raising Health & Safety concerns in CLASS living environments

ALLISTON, ON, March 6, 2023 /CNW/ - OPSEU/SEFPO President JP Hornick will join with community members, workers and allies outside Community Living Association for South Simcoe (CLASS) head office to demand CLASS management reverse the termination of three Developmental Service workers. The three workers were fired by CLASS management after raising concerns about health and safety.

DATE: Tuesday, March 7th 
TIME: 1 p.m. – 2 p.m.
LOCATION: CLASS Head Office, 233 Church Street South, Alliston, Ontario

**PHOTO OP: 1:30 p.m. picture with attendees wearing costumes**

OPSEU/SEFPO Local 332 just wants safe workplaces, but they have faced an increase in physical and verbal assaults in recent months. Although originating from a small percentage of people supported, CLASS facilities are not designed or equipped to accommodate individuals with a history of violence or substance use, resulting in concussions, stitches, broken bones, and post-traumatic stress disorder.  

The union has been calling for CLASS Executive Director, Andrew Walker, to address the health and safety crisis, yet instead of addressing the concerns, Walker fired the union leadership.

CLASS receives funding from the Ministry of Children and Social Services (MCCSS) to support individuals with developmental disabilities. The workers at CLASS assist people in their daily living activities and support them in participating in the community, through social and community activities, employment and volunteer opportunities, and the like, to enhance independence and increase quality of life.

OPSEU/SEFPO Local 332 President Allan May, one of the workers who lost his job advocating for health and safety, is available to speak with the media.

The Ontario Public Service Employees Union / Le Syndicat des employés de la fonction publique de l'Ontario (OPSEU/SEFPO) represents approximately 180,000 members across Ontario, including more than 12,000 OPSEU/SEFPO members who work in the developmental services sector.

SOURCE Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU/SEFPO)

Justin Stayshyn, 416-557-2853, [email protected]