Paul Moist led an energetic ‘Respect and Fairness’ rally for striking municipal workers in Kawartha Lakes, Ontario, on Feb. 15. In spite of the biting cold on day 12 of the strike, spirits remain positively high on the picket lines and the crowd roared in approval during Moist’s and other guests’ speeches.
“You have the strength of 560,000 CUPE members supporting your fight for respect and fairness,” said Moist. “We will be with you every step of the way to win a contract that respects workers and protects public services.” The 400 striking workers are fighting management’s contracting out agenda and tactics to demoralize workers.
Moist was joined in the rally by CUPE Ontario President Sid Ryan, CUPE Ontario Secretary Treasurer Fred Hahn and CUPE Ontario Second Vice-President and NEB member Candace Rennick.
Local 855 president, Lyn Edwards, expressed deep appreciation for the strong support from CUPE leaders and from area CUPE locals, including Local 1453’s president Terri Elliot from the Peterborough Victoria Northumberland and Clarington Catholic District School Board, who brought solidarity messages from her members.
