WOODS ISLANDS, PEI, May 8, 2017 /CNW/ - Following a Friday announcement by the federal government about a proposed owner-operated fleet of ferries along three Maritime routes, Unifor representatives are urging for good jobs to be maintained.
"When government services are contracted out, too often the priority becomes profit over quality service and family-supporting jobs," said Lana Payne, Atlantic Regional Director. "While a 20-year contract should provide stability for the service, Unifor will be fighting to ensure that the long-term contract also means that good jobs are maintained and our members have their rights protected."
Unifor represents about 150 workers at Northumberland Ferries, the operators of the Souris, P.E.I. to Caribou, Nova Scotia service.
"While a long-term contract has been something we have fought for over many years, I am looking for assurances that whatever company takes over the service under this new agreement will not reduce current staffing levels," said Geoff Genge, President of Unifor Local 4508 and 4508A. "It is imperative that interested companies maintain the collective bargaining agreements that have evolved over many decades. Through bargaining, we have ensured good jobs that support many families – this must be respected."
Unifor leadership and members will be monitoring the process closely.
Unifor is Canada's largest union in the private sector, representing more than 310,000 workers. It was formed Labour Day weekend 2013 when the Canadian Auto Workers and the Communications, Energy and Paperworkers unions merged.
SOURCE Unifor
please contact Unifor Communications National Representative Shelley Amyotte at [email protected] or 902-717-7491 (cell).
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