MGEU supports workers at Vista Park Lodge

MGEU/NUPGE support UFCW members in fight over contracting out services at personal care homes.

Winnipeg (23 Sept. 2013) - A crowd of about 100 gathered on September 20 at Vista Park Lodge to show their support for the United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Canada members who are on strike in a fight against contracting-out, poor wages and concessionary bargaining.

Manitoba Government and General Employees' Union (MGEU/NUPGE) show solidarity on issue of contracting out

Employees at Vista Park Lodge earn significantly less than other employees working in private and public personal care homes. Now their employer (Extendicare) wants the ability to contract out work without assurances to current staff. The crowd included about 30 MGEU/NUPGE members and many other supporters from health care unions who walked the picket line in support.

“I see what’s happening to these workers and my heart really goes out to them. I’ve worked in a care home; I know what it’s like. And our union represents more than 3,000 members in personal care homes, they know what it’s like too," said MGEU President Michelle Gawronsky. "You feel a duty to those you’re caring for every day but at the same time the way some workers are treated by some employers, it’s tough for people to continue in those jobs and it’s tough to attract new workers."

Under the Essential Services Act, members are still working in the care home, while picketing before and after their shifts. The picket line will be operating from 11 a.m.– 7 p.m. weekdays and from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. on weekends.

Support on the line is welcome and appreciated!

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