I write regarding a piece published in The Telegram Oct 15, “Striking Dominion workers take picket line to Loblaw's Newfoundland distribution centre.”
As far as negotiations go, the union has been on strike since Aug. 22, with all 11 Dominion stores in Newfoundland and Labrador closed. Eight weeks into this strike Jerry Dias, national president of Unifor, issued a news release on Oct. 15 that also restated the call for Loblaw to return to the bargaining table.
Why do we entitle labour ministers to just sit back and eat popcorn and watch the show?
As far as negotiations go, where is the Hon. Filomena Tassi, Canadian minister of labour? Why, on Sept. 7, 2020, was her statement, “On Labour Day, we celebrate Canada’s workers. We celebrate the contributions that they have made to build our country, a country that we love. We also salute Canada’s labour movement, which has fought tirelessly for better wages, workplace safety and equal rights for all Canadians"?
As far as negotiations go, Unifor Local 597 president Carolyn Wrice said in the same news release as Dias on Oct. 15, “The only way this ends is through fair bargaining.”
As far as negotiations go, where is the Hon. Gerry Byrne, minister of immigration, skills and labour? Why on Sept. 7, 2020, was his statement, “On Labour Day, it is my honour and pleasure to recognize and thank workers throughout the province for the incredible contribution they make. As we celebrate our shared commitment to supporting fair, safe and productive workplaces, I wish all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians a safe and happy Labour Day”?
As far as negotiations go, where is Galen G. Weston, the chairman and chief executive officer of Loblaw, Dominion’s parent company?
Why is it that, when there is a lengthy national or provincial strike, there seems to be just one corporate entity that calls the shots? Why do we entitle labour ministers to just sit back and eat popcorn and watch the show?
Stephen Mitchinson
Goulds
