BURNABY Mark Hancock, acting president of CUPE B.C. is calling on CUPE members across the province to show solidarity with the striking BC Ferry and Marine Workers who went on strike today at noon!
These workers have shown respect and reason despite the companys attempts to discredit them, said Hancock. The CUPE BC leader is referring to the fact that the BC Labour Relations Board supported the ferry workers right to strike and their provision of essential services.
The BC Liberals started this process by privatizing the Ferry Corporation. The new company president Mr. Hahn made it clear from the outset that he would break the union and thats what this is all about.
The Minister of Labour, with another cooling off period in hand, has lost credibility, said Hancock. Cooling-off periods have become a ploy of this government. This one like the cooling-off period imposed on CUPE university workers earlier this year would no doubt be followed by a legislated contract one that would work against unionized workers. That is the agenda of this provincial government.
In asking CUPE members to support the Ferry Workers the acting president of CUPE BC emphasized that what Ferry Workers are defending is the right for every public sector worker to negotiate in good faith and use their right to strike should negotiations break down.
The provincial liberals led by Gordon Campbell and MLAs from right across this province do not respect the labour rights of public or private sector workers. Its time to let the liberals know what workers think of them.
Hancock advised CUPE members that basic support is the unions current policy. Well watch events and advise when escalation of our support is required.
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Information:
Mark Hancock
CUPE BC Acting President
604-828-0498.