LCBO Workers to Hold Rally in Downtown Toronto on Day 2 of Historic Strike
On the second day of their historic strike, LCBO workers are set to hold a rally in downtown Toronto to demand better working conditions and fair wages.
The strike, which began on Monday, is the first province-wide strike in the history of the Liquor Control Board of Ontario (LCBO). It involves over 8,000 workers who are members of the Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU).
The rally is scheduled to take place at noon on Tuesday at the LCBO headquarters on Queens Quay. Workers from across the province are expected to attend, along with union leaders and supporters.
According to OPSEU President Warren (Smokey) Thomas, the rally is an opportunity for workers to show their solidarity and determination in fighting for their rights.
“We are standing together to demand that the LCBO treat its workers with respect and dignity,” Thomas said in a statement. “These workers are the backbone of the LCBO and they deserve fair wages, job security, and safe working conditions.”
The main issues at the heart of the strike are job security and wages. The union is calling for a minimum wage of $15 per hour for all LCBO workers, as well as an end to the use of temporary and contract workers.
In addition, the union is demanding that the LCBO address concerns over workplace violence and harassment, as well as improve scheduling practices to ensure a better work-life balance for employees.
The LCBO, on the other hand, has stated that it is committed to reaching a fair and reasonable agreement with its workers. In a statement released on Monday, the organization said it has made significant offers to the union, including a 7.75% wage increase over three years.
However, the union has rejected these offers, stating that they do not address the key issues of job security and fair wages.
The strike has already caused disruptions for LCBO customers, with many stores closed or operating on reduced hours. The union has warned that the strike could continue for an extended period of time if a resolution is not reached.
In the meantime, the LCBO has advised customers to check the store locator on its website for updates on store hours and closures.
The rally on Tuesday is expected to draw attention to the ongoing strike and put pressure on the LCBO to address the concerns of its workers. It remains to be seen how long the strike will continue and what impact it will have on the province’s liquor supply.
