The union representing custodial staff on the Canadian side of the Blue Water Bridge (BWB) is sounding the alarm after 10 workers were abruptly let go.
In a news release, the Public Service Alliance of Canada (PSAC) said the staff were "suddenly terminated and escorted off the property" on June 15.
President of PSAC DCL 501 Matt Delaroche said the Federal Bridge Corporation (FBCL) signed a contract with GDI Integrated Facility Services to contract out the entire custodial department.
He said GDI immediately had their contract workers on site the next day to take over operations.
“Imagine having 20 years of dedicated service and one day your manager sits you down and fires you on the spot and you’re given 10 minutes to leave the building,” said Delaroche. “That’s the disgusting way these workers have been treated and the ruthless way this was done.”
PSAC Ontario Regional Executive Vice-President Craig Reynolds is calling on political leaders, including MP Marilyn Gladu, MPP Bob Bailey, Mayor Mike Bradley, Mayor Bev Hand, and Councillor Brian White to intervene and help keep good jobs in the community.
"At a time when workers and families are already facing rising costs and economic uncertainty, job security has never been more important," he said. "These workers didn't lose their jobs because the work disappeared. They lost them because FBCL chose to contract work out without consultation with the union and the affected employees. That should concern every worker who depends on secure employment."
In an email to Sarnia News Today, the FBCL said it was "strategic decision."
“This operational change is designed to focus our resources on our core public mandate—the operation, maintenance and stewardship of our international bridge infrastructure—while ensuring the highest standards of reliable, continuous service delivery at this critical border crossing," read the statement. "FBCL recognizes that any workplace transition is a significant adjustment, and we are deeply grateful to our custodial staff for their years of dedicated service."
The FBCL said it was "committed to supporting the employees far beyond statutory requirements."
"In implementing this transition, FBCL worked within the framework of the collective agreement. Following an internal meeting 100 per cent voluntary resolution was achieved, with all employees accepting an enhanced, voluntary separation package. Notably, 50 per cent of the transitioning employees chose to retire directly, supported by lifetime, 100 per cent employer-paid health and dental benefits."
The FBCL said there will be no disruption of cleaning services at the bridge.
It will "initiate a formal, competitive procurement process in the coming months to establish a longer-term service agreement."
