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In appreciation of the Goderich and surrounding community’s support for the nearly 350 workers on strike at Compass Minerals, Unifor hosted a free BBQ on June 28.
“The community support for striking miners has been incredible,” said Jerry Dias, National President, who spoke at the event. “This community knows that we’re fighting for good jobs now and for the long term.”
Dozens of community members were welcomed by Unifor at the event that was attended by more than 500 people. Speakers included Jerry Dias, Local 16-O President Gary Lynch, Unifor Mining Director Richard Paquin, and National Representative Glenn Sonier.
Lynch, on behalf of the striking workers extended his thanks for the ongoing support from the community and the union, “Every day we walk the picket line and it’s been tough but with your solidarity we remain strong and determined in this fight for fairness.”
Unifor retirees and miners from Sudbury were also in attendance. Local 16-O was presented with strike donations from several Unifor locals from around the province. To learn how your local can make a donation or offer support please visit unifor.org/compassmine
Local 16-O has been on strike since April 27, 2018. The company’s latest offer included a long list of concessions including reducing benefits, extending shift length, forced overtime, and weakening existing contracting-out provisions in the collective agreement. Unifor Local 16-O says the employer ignored the majority of its proposals.
Unifor represents the miners in production, shipping, and maintenance at Compass Minerals in Goderich who are on strike, standing up for decent work and the rights of pensioners.
Earlier this year, the union says the employer tried to mislead 48 laid off workers into accepting a severance package that would have cancelled recall rights.
To end the strike, the union is demanding a fair settlement for the miners and an immediate end to the use of replacement workers.
