Reliance Home Comfort workers strike after company imposes terms

TORONTO, May 2, 2012 /CNW/ - Almost 300 members of the Communications, Energy and Paperworkers Union of Canada, who work for Reliance Home Comfort Limited, went on strike at midnight, after their employer took the unusual step of imposing working terms and conditions during the collective bargaining process.

"After our membership voted to reject the company's offer, Reliance Home Comfort imposed unacceptable working conditions, forcing a strike," says CEP Ontario Administrative Vice-President Dave Moffat.

"The company has demanded concessions all the way through this bargaining round," says Moffat, adding that "Reliance is a very successful company, and the skill level and dedication of their employees is a big part of that success.

"The company is also demanding a two-tier wage system that discriminates against new hires," he says.  "We believe that degrades their skill level and potentially harms customer service."

The 295 clerical and operational employees, members of CEP Local 1999, install and repair heating, ventilation and air conditioning equipment for homeowners throughout Ontario. They work out of offices in Windsor, Sarnia, London, Brantford, Cambridge Burlington, Kingston and Thunder Bay, Ontario.

"We want a fair collective agreement, and are prepared to go back to the table at any time," adds Moffat.

Dave Moffat [phone]