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“These are disappointing actions from an employer who depends on the goodwill of the public and the commitment of its workers,” says BCGEU President Darryl Walker.
Vancouver (28 Feb. 2014) — The B.C. Government and Service Employees' Union (BCGEU/NUPGE) is calling on the Salvation Army National Recycling Operation to immediately reinstate 10 workers at its Victoria recycling centre.
Sudden layoffs at the Salvation Army National Recycling Operation shocks long term employees
The members were laid off yesterday, without warning, and effective immediately. Some of these members have worked at the Salvation Army for over 20 years.
The work performed by the BCGEU/NUPGE members, who sort items donated by the public, will now be performed by non-union workers at each Thrift Store throughout the Victoria and Duncan area. This contracting out of work is a clear breach of the collective agreement. It is also in violation of Section 54 of the B.C. Labour Relations Code which requires 60 days notice of termination, and includes provisions around severance and the implementation of an adjustment plan.
“These are disappointing actions from an employer who depends on the goodwill of the public and the commitment of its workers,” says BCGEU President Darryl Walker. “These workers deserve to be treated with respect, according to the provisions of the collective agreement signed by the Salvation Army National Recycling Operation and in full compliance with the labour laws of our province. The Salvation Army is failing on all counts.”
NUPGE
The National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE) is one of Canada's largest labour organizations with over 340,000 members. Our mission is to improve the lives of working families and to build a stronger Canada by ensuring our common wealth is used for the common good. NUPGE