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Unifor has called on Federal Minister of Labour Steve MacKinnon to assist in bringing about a collective agreement to end the 142-day long labour dispute at Best Theratronics.
Today, Best Theratronics workers and Unifor Ontario Regional Director Samia Hashi met with MacKinnon to discuss the unfair labour practices employed by company owner Krishnan Suthanthiran that have needlessly prolonged the months long strike.
“This employer has flouted Canadian law and used intimidation and illegal bargaining and union-busting tactics to try to starve out workers to accept a contract with zero wage increases,” said Hashi. “Today our members shared the abusive behaviour and hardship they have experienced as a result of Suthanthiran’s actions with Minister MacKinnon.”
In January 2024, the company tabled its first and only economic offer, which had zero wage increases. Since then, at Suthanthiran’s direction, the company has refused to return to the bargaining table.
Two of the striking workers, Unifor Local 1541 President Steve LaBelle and Bargaining Committee member Jonathan Fournier told Minister MacKinnon about the devastating impact the strike has had on the workers and their families.
“Our members are into their fourth month walking the picket line while the millionaire owner of the company refuses to even dignify workers by coming to the table,” said LaBelle. “We appreciate Minister MacKinnon taking the time to hear how workers are struggling to make ends meet while Best Theratronics runs rough shod over their rights.”
The Unifor Local 1541 members, who manufacture medical equipment used in cancer treatments, have been on strike at the Best Theratronics facility in Kanata, Ontario since May 1, 2024. Members from the Public Service Alliance of Canada at Best Theratronics also began strike action on May 10.
