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This is what solidarity looks like! Québec brewery workers send Labatt AB InBev a strong message: "We will not be divided."
Ottawa (02 Aug. 2013) — Brewery workers in Lasalle, Québec set up picket lines yesterday to demonstrate their solidarity with striking Newfoundland and Labrador Association of Public and Private Employees (NAPE/NUPGE) who work for Labatt (AB InBev).
Pickets were set up at five different Labatt brewery locations by members of the Confédération des syndicats nationaux (CSN) to send a message to the Labatt that workers will not be divided over contract negotiations.
"These workers understand what Labatt, and AB InBev is trying to do in St. John's," said James Clancy, National President of the National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE). "Targeting one of the smallest workforces in the country, to bring in concessions that would then be used against every other worker in a Labatt brewery, is unacceptable. Together, with our brothers and sisters across the country, we won't let this happen."
"We are thankful for the solidarity people across the world have shown to our members on the line," Clancy continued. "Great thanks goes out to the Canadian Brewery Worker's Alliance for bringing solidarity to our striking members."
Through a LabourStart campaign, over 10,000 messages have been sent to Labatt and AB InBev management demanding they return to the table to negotiate a fair deal. Messages also target the employer for the use of scabs during this work dispute.
More information:
Frank O'Leary, striking Labatt worker: 'We are standing strong for what is right and just'
Striking workers Facebook page
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