FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 1, 2005
Windsor won’t tolerate
use of scab labour by U.S. billionaire owner of
Bridge duty-free
WINDSOR – Labour leaders in
this city have warned U.S. billionaire Manuel (Matty) Moroun
to back off on his plans to use of scabs at the Ambassador
Bridge Duty Free shop in the event of a strike this Friday.
At a news conference today,
OPSEU President Leah Casselman was accompanied by key labour
leaders in Windsor who pledged their support to ensure
replacement workers or scabs won’t cross the picket line.
Attending the news conference with Ms. Casselman and sending a
strong message to the employer were Windsor Labour leaders:
- Marie-Claire Coupal,
President of Customs Excise Union representing Ambassador
Bridge customs officers
- Dave Croswell, First Vice
President of CAW Local 200
- Aldo DiCarlo, President,
CUPE 1393 and Member of the University of Windsor Board of
Governors
- Ellsworth Banks, First Vice
President of the Windsor District Labour Council
Last week the Ambassador Bridge
Corporation walked away from contract talks with the 45
University of Windsor students who work the Canadian-side
duty-free outlet. “The employer had better get back to the
bargaining table if it wants this store to stay open on the
long weekend,” says OPSEU’s president.
“When you employ scabs, you’re
not just taking on 45 students – you’re taking on the entire
labour movement in Windsor,” said CAW representative Dave
Croswell.
Maroun has a history of
questionable labour relations. When toll collectors working
for Maroun wanted to organize, for instance, he moved toll
booths across the river and out of range of Canadian labour
laws.
Duty-free employees are paid a
maximum of $9.25 an hour; less than $150 in an average week.
It’s been three years since their last wage increase.
-30-
For more information:
David Cox, OPSEU
Communications 416-443-8888 x 8314
