Union head challenges Crombie on labour flip-flops

MISSISSAUGA, ON, Oct. 22, 2014 /CNW/ - The Canadian head of a major construction union has challenged Mississauga Mayoralty candidate Bonnie Crombie to come clean on where she stands on issues that are important to working people in Mississauga.

Joseph Maloney, head of the Boilermakers union in Canada, says Crombie at first supported fair wages and sought union support, but has since backtracked and started attacking workers.

"Before our members vote on Monday, they deserve to know where Bonnie Crombie stands," said Maloney. "On Labour Day, she said she supported fair collective bargaining and fair wages. But at a public meeting, she called unions 'old boys' clubs' and accused us of making 'backroom deals.'"

"She's been on a union-bashing rampage that can only mean a complete flip-flop on an important policy."

Maloney says Crombie's intent to bring in accountants to propose service cuts throws into question her promises of "inclusion" and "investing in our people."

"Will the real Bonnie Crombie please stand up? Is it Dr. Jeckyl or Mr. Hyde? We see a lot of talk about principles and including everyone, but that disappears when push comes to shove," said Maloney. "She seems to have turned her campaign into Tea Party North."

"Labour is eager to work with the next Mayor of Mississauga," said Maloney. "The working people of our community have a lot to contribute. We'd like to know that the next Mayor respects and won't turn on us at the first sign of a disagreement."

The Boilermakers union has publicly supported candidate Steve Mahoney for Mayor.

"Steve Mahoney doesn't have to make empty promises," said Maloney. "His solid record of standing up for working people in more than 30 years of public service speaks for itself."

SOURCE: International Brotherhood of Boilermakers

Joe Maloney, 780-499-3951