Pallister singles out most vulnerable workers for first labour attack

WINNIPEG, June 15, 2016 /CNW/ - Manitoba's most vulnerable workers will have fewer rights if Bill 7 becomes law, says Unifor.

"Brian Pallister is a bully who picks on those who can't defend themselves," said Jerry Dias, Unifor's National President. "Bill 7 was designed to keep Manitoba's most vulnerable workers poor and powerless."

Unifor says the bill makes it more difficult for workers seeking protection to join a union. Today's legislation makes changes to the union certification process, giving employers greater opportunities to threaten workers before holding a vote. Bill 7, the Labour Relations Amendment Act, eliminates workers' option to achieve union certification by collecting signed union cards from 65% of workers in a workplace, a tactic undertaken when organizers believe that intimidation from bosses will be a factor in a vote.

"Employers already hold most of the power in non-union workplaces," said Joie Warnock, Unifor's Western Director. "It's clear already that Pallister is going to be a premier for the powerful."

Earlier in 2016 Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said that he would undo the Harper-era anti-union legislation that is now being embraced by Pallister.

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

Unifor Communications Representative Ian Boyko at 778-903-6549 (cell) or [email protected]