The Syndicat des débardeurs du port de Montréal (Montreal Longshore Workers’ Union) (CUPE 375) started the May 1 march in Montreal. Last week, the rights of the striking longshore workers were restricted by the back-to-work legislation passed in the House of Commons.
“We’re pleased to march along with our brothers and sisters to mark this International Workers’ Day, even though it’s a really sad day for union members across the country. We clearly have a long way to go, considering how easily employee rights can be thwarted,” pointed out Michel Murray, union representative and spokesman for CUPE 375.
The union announced Thursday that it was going to contest the legislation before the courts and that it had already filed a complaint with the International Labour Organization. Several unions in the country and even some beyond our borders have condemned the use of this type of legislation, which undermines fundamental rights protected by the Constitution.
“May 1 has been a day of struggle and demonstration by the labour movement in several countries for more than 100 years. We invite the public to come out and march with us,” said Michel Murray.