Ford’s Conservatives refuse to stand up for workers’ rights

QUEEN'S PARK - In a sadly familiar turn of events, Ford’s Conservatives have once again voted against anti-scab legislation, marking the sixteenth time the Ontario NDP has tabled the bill.

This decision, while not unexpected given Ford's Conservatives' lack of regard for workers, highlights the ongoing challenges workers face in Ontario. MPP Jamie West (Sudbury), Official Opposition NDP Critic for Labour and Skills Development, an advocate at the forefront of this essential legislation, remains committed to protecting workers' rights in a province where safeguards are repeatedly dismissed.

"The Conservatives’ track record has been nothing short of detrimental to workers' rights," said West. "From Bill 124, which unjustly restricted the wage increases of public sector workers, to the struggles faced by health care and education workers, this government has consistently failed to prioritize working people in our province. Even in their most recent Labour Bill, the Conservatives reiterate an existing wage-theft law instead of addressing the $9 million that has been stolen from Ontario's workers—a fact they are well aware of.”

The NDP's legislation, which would prohibit the hiring of replacement workers during a strike or lockout, received significant support from prominent labour unions such as OPSEU/SEFPO, ATU Canada, USW, and ACTRA, who recognize the importance of anti-scab legislation in preserving workers' rights and promoting fair negotiations.

"The significance of anti-scab legislation extends beyond protecting workers - it's about upholding the integrity of the bargaining process," said West. "At the core of collective bargaining is the power of workers to withhold their labour to negotiate a fair wage. Anti-scab legislation recognizes this fundamental right, ensuring the bargaining process remains fair and effective. It's not just a legal provision - it's a cornerstone to fostering fair and honest labour relations.

"Doug Ford's Conservatives don't care about workers, and voting against anti-scab legislation only reinforces that disregard for the hardworking people of this province. The people of Ontario know what this government has been doing to them, and in the next election, they will have the chance to elect an NDP premier who supports workers.”