Winnipeg Tim Hortons Restaurant to be Represented by Workers United

WINNIPEG, June 11, 2015 /CNW/ - Thirty-five workers from a Winnipeg Tim Hortons restaurant will now be represented by Workers United Canada Council following a decision from the Manitoba Labour Relations Board this week. 

"This is a substantial victory for workers that have experienced a campaign of fear and intimation by the employer," said Rabia Syed, an Organizer with Workers United.

The Labour Relations Board issued a Consent Order granting a discretionary certification to the union after the Tim Hortons' franchisee's management admitted that they had engaged in several violations against worker's rights to unionize. This included the franchisee owner's threats to employees that Tim Hortons would close down any restaurant locations that unionized and the firing of a worker in February who was discovered by management to be talking to union organizers.

The worker, who had been employed by the restaurant for nearly five years, was reinstated to her position by the Labour Board and was also awarded $1,500 in damages for the mental anguish she endured.

The Tim Hortons restaurant, located at Portage Avenue and Wall Street, will soon begin the process of negotiations on a first collective agreement.

"This is a significant victory for the labour movement," said Barry Fowlie, Director of Workers United. "It sends a clear message that employers cannot simply walk over workers' rights. The real work will now begin with negotiations and we will keep a close eye on this Tim Hortons to make sure they bargain a first contract fairly."

Workers United represents 10,000 workers across Canada and 150,000 workers across North America. Workers United members work in garment and textile, food service, hospitality, social services, manufacturing and distribution industries.

SOURCE Workers United Canada Council

Navjeet Sidhu, Communications (Workers United Canada Council) [email protected], 416-510-0887 x274.