Maisons de la famille runs ads to hire scab workers

'This action demonstrates a complete lack of respect for the hard-working, dedicated staff.'

Toronto (7 Dec. 2010) - Groupe Action is placing ads for new employees to replace workers who are currently out on strike in Eastern Ontario, says the Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU/NUPGE).

Workers have been on strike since Nov. 17 at the Maisons de la famille (Family Centres) which are also known as Groupe Action pour l’enfant, la famille et la communauté de Prescott-Russell.

“It is outrageous that this employer has taken out ads in the local papers to replace workers who are on the picket line,” says OPSEU  spokesman Paul Sharkey. “This action demonstrates a complete lack of respect for the hard-working, dedicated staff who run these programs for our communities.”

A key issue at the table is the employer’s demand to be able to move workers from one town to another without compensation on April 1 each year, a change that will seriously erode continuity in the services provided within individual communities.

Workers are picketing daily from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Through the 'Fiers de nos enfants' programs at the Maisons de la famille, staff provide support for children up to age six and to their parents. Offering front-line education and parenting assistance to families in Prescott-Russell County, the employees provide services in several different communities.

Worksites include three Maisons de la famille - in Hawkesbury, Embrun and Rockland. There are also several satellite centres.

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

More information:
• Maisons de la famille strike deadline postponed
• Maisons de la famille deadline set for Nov. 15