Following developments with the union representing Telus supervisory employees at the start of this week, CUPE 5044 - the Syndicat québécois des employés de Telus, SQET - has just learned that 316 of its members will be receiving voluntary severance offers and will not be replaced. This decision has worried workers who have seen a record number of jobs cut in just one announcement. There have been 770 voluntary severances since 2021.
“Telus has a slogan stating that it gives where we live, but actions such as these are diametrically opposed to this notion. By moving increasing numbers of jobs outside of Quebec to countries where laws, regulations and working conditions are in no way comparable, Telus is leaving the community in Rimouski and the surrounding area with significantly fewer jobs,” declared Jean-Nicolas Banville, president of SQET.
The SQET, which represents office employees, tradespersons and technicians, is calling on Telus management to begin discussions with local representatives to lay the groundwork to ensure sustainable jobs in Quebec, particularly in Rimouski. This will also serve as a true commitment to the local community and economy.
The most recent announcements about the future of jobs in Rimouski and in the surrounding area have prompted questions about the company’s self-proclaimed social responsibility. It is imperative that Telus reconsider its approach and work constructively with stakeholders in local communities and workers to find lasting solutions that contribute to safeguarding employment in Quebec.