CUPE National President Mark Hancock and the National Secretary-Treasurer Candace Rennick were in Quebec to visit two groups of striking workers, one representing the Société québécoise du cannabis (SQDC) advisors and the other the croupiers at the Casino de Montréal.
Both CUPE National officers reminded strikers that they have the support of 700,000 members throughout the country and that they can rely on their solidarity until the end. CUPE’s large strike fund is also an important asset for CUPE members, empowering workers to issue strike mandates and fight to improve their fate.
“Kudos to you for standing up for decent working conditions! When cannabis was legalized, the government issued a public health mandate to the SQDC to have its advisors educate customers on this substance. It’s an important job that our members took seriously and performed with enthusiasm,” said Mark Hancock, in front of one of the striking SQDC outlets on Queen Mary Road in Montreal.
Both Hancock and Rennick then headed over to parc Jean-Drapeau - where the Casino de Montréal is located - to deliver a similar message.
“We’re here to reiterate our solidarity. You’re on strike because 55 % of croupiers at the Casino de Montreal have suffered repetitive stress injuries during the course of their work. You’ve proposed solutions, and management isn’t listening. I am proud to be standing beside you to defend your physical integrity,” said Rennick.
“We’re thrilled that they paid us a visit, and we thank them for their unwavering support. We’re aware that defending a member in one area of the country can have an effect on our membership everywhere,” said Patrick Gloutney, president of CUPE Quebec.