FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 20, 2002

Corrections performing an illegal lockout? “I guess we are,” manager says

MILLBROOK - Two nurses were among 24 workers locked out at the Millbrook Correctional Centre at 6:45 a.m. today.

Correctional officers, security officers, kitchen staff, and the nurses showed up to perform their essential duties as required during the strike by 45,000 Ontario Public Service employees.

All 24 were suspended with pay on arrival at the institution. When informed by an OPSEU steward that management was engaging in an illegal lockout, the manager issuing the suspensions replied, “I guess we are.”

The suspension of the two nurses was rescinded in writing at 10:00 a.m. this morning. The 22 others are on the picket line and remain available to perform essential work.

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For more information:

Dan Murphy, steward, OPSEU Local 341 (705) 932-9341
Terry Campbell, vice-president, OPSEU Local 341 (705) 932-9341