Unifor holds day of action at DHL locations across Canada to support Safe Rates

TORONTO, Aug. 23, 2024 /CNW/ - Unifor members who work at DHL and their supporters will hold rallies across Canada on Tuesday, August 27 in support of the International Transport Federation's Safe Rates campaign week.

A group of people holding signs and banners that read "A Union For Everyone" and "Safe Rates," gathered outside during the daytime in a protest or rally setting. (CNW Group/Unifor)

"Transport workers move the world, and that is exactly why our union supports the ITF Safe Rates campaign," said Unifor National President Lana Payne. "Together, we hold days of action such as this one to let employers like DHL know that raising the floor for transport workers across the country is a priority, and that we are prepared to organize for fair wages and safe working conditions." 

What: Rally to support International Transport Federation's Safe Rates campaign

Who: Unifor Secretary-Treasurer Len Poirier, Unifor DHL members and supporters

When: Tuesday, August 27, 8 a.m. Eastern Time

Where: DHL Hamilton, 65 East Cargo Rd., Hamilton, Ont., L0R 1W0

Paying a driver a "safe rate" means they are paid fairly for all labour time and can make enough to take care of family and take appropriate breaks and time off, enabling them to be alert and focused while driving. If a driver owns their own vehicle, a safe rate must be calculated that covers the costs of purchasing, maintaining, and operating it.

Safe Rates systems legally obligate the companies at the top of road transport supply chains to enforce these rates and can be found around the world including in Canada, Australia, South Korea, and Brazil.

Rallies are scheduled Tuesday in Ontario, Quebec, Manitoba and B.C. targeting DHL for shortening the routes of their employees, causing some owner-operator members to lose up to 50% of wages last year. Not providing a "safe rate" could lead to health and safety issues, including driver fatigue.

Unifor is advocating for the federal government and transport industry to adopt Safe Rates legislation.

Unifor is Canada's largest union in the private sector, representing 320,000 workers in every major area of the economy. The union advocates for all working people and their rights, fights for equality and social justice in Canada and abroad, and strives to create progressive change for a better future.

SOURCE Unifor

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