In the statement, FISH-NL president Ryan Cleary said Shortall chose sides in the dispute between Federation of Independent Sea Harvesters of Newfoundland and Labrador (FISH-NL) and the Fish, Food and Allied Workers (FFAW).
“Mary Shortall has also lost touch with workers in this province and should be forced to resign immediately, and it’s not just me who’s saying that,” said Cleary.
Shortall released a memo earlier in the week, stating FISH-NL was “using desperate measures and inciting violence, division and discontent to try and destroy FFAW and their members.”
“There’s an incestuous relationship between too many union leaders in this province and it must be brought to light,” said Cleary. “We are a voice for inshore harvesters who have lost theirs with the FFAW.”
Speaking to The Telegram Thursday, Shortall renewed her intention to stand by members of the FFAW.
“We will continue to support FFAW as a member of our union. It’s tough to see them disagreeing, but it’s easier when there’s no outside influence,” Shortall said. “We have a constitution and a process in place to support our members.”
Concerning FISH-NL’s statement, Shortall said it is her jurisdiction.
“Obviously, they don’t understand how the federation of labour works. It is absolutely my job to support unions and union members in the province.”
Twitter: @joshrjhealey
