OAKVILLE -The union representing 145 striking workers at the Syl Apps Youth Centre claims that youths are being released prematurely from the facility so that the employer can prolong the strike.
"This practice of releasing youths early from the centre is dangerous for both the youths and the community," said Mohar Budhram, President of Local 213. "The employer, Kinark Child & Family Services, makes it appear that the youths are doing well and releasing them. In fact, many of these youths would still be in custody if there wasn't a
labour dispute."
The union has also learned through reliable sources inside the facility that Kinark is making it easier for youths to obtain unescorted passes, and pressuring reluctant parents to take their children home on passes. The union says that this is being done in order to reduce the facility count and ease the workload for managers running the
Centre.
"Giving out passes to youths who have either not earned them or would not qualify for them has resulted in a suicide attempt and an attempted escape so far," Budhram said. "We find it appalling that Kinark would put these kids and the community at risk rather than end the strike."
Budhram also pointed out that youths who should be in Syl Apps are still being sent to other facilities that aren't designed to deal with their problems.
"This is a disaster waiting to happen," Budhram said. "Between the releases, the unearned passes and diverting youths to other facilities, it is only a matter of time before tragedy strikes. The Ontario government is responsible for this facility. It is time they stepped in and looked at the risks being taken so that a private company can
save money."
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For more information, please contact:
Mohar Budhram: (289) 259-3260
Bebe De Freitas, OPSEU Staff Representative: (905) 536-8774
