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Time is running out for the LCBO to reach a deal with it’s unionized workers. The workers will be in a legal strike position by the end of the month after requesting a no board report from the Ministry of Labour.
In most contract negotiations hourly wages are a major factor, but they aren’t in this case. The union is more concerned about privitization and full time jobs as more grocery stores sell booze.
OPSEU, the union representing the LCBO workers requested a no board report from the Ministry of Labour. The Ministry is expected to grant the request later this week. From that point the two sides will have 17 days to work out a deal.
“Basically what happens is the employer can lock us out or we’re in legal strike position.” Shawn Swayze, Local 287 President.
LCBO spokesperson Christine Bujold issued this statement to CHCH News:
“We are developing contingency plans to continue to provide service to our customers (wholesale and retail) in the event of a work disruption.”
Since October of last year, grocery stores have sold more than 32 million worth of alcohol, the union says privatization of the LCBO and full time jobs are major concerns.
“Right now 84% of people that work at the LCBO are part time making less than $30,000 a year.”
A full time clerk’s annual salary is $47 000 – $57,000. The LCBO has 7 500 unionized workers, only about 1 300 of them are full time and while salary isn’t a major arguing point, the union does want part time employees paid the same as full timers if they’re doing the same job.
