Penetanguishene – Seeking safer working conditions and a real say in the workplace, hundreds of long-term care workers at Georgian Village and Manor in Penetanguishene have voted in favour of joining OPSEU/SEFPO.
“I’m so pleased to hear that these heroic front-line workers have decided to join our great union,” said OPSEU/SEFPO President Warren (Smokey) Thomas. “We could all use a little good news these days, and for everybody in Simcoe County, this is great news.
“The residents of Georgian Village and Manor will get better and safer care. The residents of Simcoe County will be able to rest a little bit easier knowing that their loved ones won’t be as vulnerable to deadly COVID-19 outbreaks.
It’s also a big win for the workers at Georgian Village and Manor, said Thomas, who noted they’re in good company as thousands of workers from various sectors have joined OPSEU/SEFPO this year.
“Every month more and more workers are realizing that OPSEU/SEFPO is the place to be,” said Thomas. “We have the best pension plan in the province, the lowest dues of any major union in Canada, and we offer a vast number of services. Members win with OPSEU/SEFPO.”
OPSEU/SEFPO First Vice-President/Treasurer Eduardo (Eddy) Almeida is not surprised, but incredibly proud that so many front-line workers are joining the union in the face of all the danger and uncertainty surrounding the pandemic.
“We’re 170,000 strong and growing fast,” said Almeida. “Joining us means employers and the government will take your concerns seriously, and act quickly to address them.”
Joan Corradetti, the chair of OPSEU/SEFPO’s Long-Term Care Sector, offered a warm welcome to the new members.
“On behalf of the 3,500 other long-term care workers in OPSEU/SEFPO, I’d like to say congratulations and welcome,” Corradetti. “We’re stronger together. And when we’re strong, we can push for better wages, better safety, and the ability to provide better care to the residents of our homes.”