On September 19, hundreds of workers from other Manitoba unions joined striking UFCW Local 832 members on the picket line Vista Park Lodge in Winnipeg. These workers have been on strike since September 14.

“It’s important to show our support. What’s at stake for these workers – fair pay and equal treatment – is important to all working families,” said MFL President Kevin Rebeck. “Their battle is our battle.”

Employees at Vista Park Lodge are currently earning significantly less than other employees working in private and public personal care homes. Now the company wants the ability to contract out work without assurances to current staff.

While the company stated it is under financial hardship, it has not produced any documents to verify that claim. Faced with concessions and wage freezes, the members have decided to walk a picket line in hopes of maintaining what they currently have and receive a fair wage increase.

The more than 100 employees on strike have been without a collective agreement since March 31, 2012. The Manitoba Labour Board assigned a conciliation officer to assist with negotiations but, unfortunately, the company has remained steadfast in its position.

Under the Essential Services Act, members are still offer support to those in the care home. They picket before and after their shifts.