CUPE 1281 gave the employer notice to bargain a first collective agreement in May, after being certified earlier in the month. Since that time, management has failed to set bargaining dates, despite several requests from the union.
Local President Pam Frache condemned the firings as a violation of the stations commitment to progressive labour practice. We find it particularly reprehensible that these two staff members both black women were the only workers of colour in the bargaining unit, she said.
CUPE locals and activists are invited to flood the Board of Directors at CIUT with letters of protest. Letters should be addressed to John Williams, President, CIUT FM Radio, 91 George Street, Toronto M5S 2E8 with a copy to Pam Frache, President of Local 1281 at 25 Cecil Street, Room 202, Toronto M5T 1N1.