Support for locked out D-J Composites members in Gander Newfoundland has been overwhelming as Unifor locals from across Canada sent financial donations and moral support.
“Thanks to our sisters and brothers from Unifor and other unions across North America, our members made it through the holidays with resolve as they face another winter on the line,” said Lana Payne, Atlantic Regional Director.
32 aerospace workers from local 597 were locked out by their American-based employer more than a year ago, just before Christmas in December of 2016.
The employer is headquartered in the so-called right-to-work state of Kansas and has been allowed to behave as though its Gander operation is not obligated to follow provincial labour laws.
On December 19, 2017, one year after the lock-out began; Unifor filed a second labour board complaint against D-J Composites, which has already been found guilty of bad faith bargaining, in May 2017.
On December 20, with the help of trade unionists from across North America, a social media Thunderclap reached 308,000 people, and sent a message to the company owner to to stop union busting and come back to the table to negotiate a fair deal. It is time to end this unjust lock-out.
“When this lock-out began, we felt isolated and alone but now with so many people showing us they care, we feel strong and supported,” said Iggy Oram, the local unit chair.
Hundreds of supporters also emailed the Newfoundland and Labrador Minister of Labour calling on him to step in. A hearing on the union’s latest complaint of bad faith bargaining is expected to be held later in January.
The members in Gander wish to thank the hundreds of Unifor locals and members for their generous support. Help has also come from other unions across North America.
Click here for ways you can support locked out local 597 members.