Thomas and Rout tour
pickets, call on Liberals to end strikes
July 17, 2007 OPSEU President Warren (Smokey) Thomas and
Vice-president / Treasurer Patty Rout toured picket lines,
focusing on the union's goal to force the Liberal government
to provide needed funding to end the strikes in the
developmental services sector.
Strikers from Local 144 in Strathroy greeted OPSEU's two top
elected officers early in the morning. Unfortunately so did
police, replacement workers and private security guards.
Despite the presence of police, security and replacement
workers, members stayed focused on their goal of getting the
contract they need and deserve. Developmental services workers
currently earn 25-30 per cent less than counterparts in similar
fields.
Next the tour moved to Chatham where many Local 148 members
greeted Brother Thomas and Sister Rout, followed by London,
where Local 144 greeted the tour. Media coverage was good at
both events.
In St. Thomas, Local 148, almost every striking member was
there to greet the tour. Thomas saluted local leaders for all
their work, and the sacrifice Region 1 striking members are
making."
“We’re ready to meet with the premier at anytime,’’ said
Thomas. “We want to end this strike.’’
Region 1 sends out a warm thank you to Brother Dennis Wilson,
President Local 101; Sister Jayne McKenzie, Local 102; Brother
Ron Langer, President Local 103; Brother David Kerr, President
Local 115 and President St. Thomas and District Labour Council;
Brother Ross Langill, Local 137, and President London and
District Area Council; and, Brother Bob Reid, Region 1 Retiree
(before that a long term Region 1 Executive Board Member) and
Honorary OPSEU Lifetime Member; Sister Cindy Haines,
Chairperson, OPSEU Provincial Women’s Committee; for joining
the tour at various times.
