The workers of Canada’s Liquor Control Board of Ontario (LCBO) have voted for a new three-year collective agreement following a two-week strike and negotiations.
9,000 LSBO workers were on strike, as talks with employees failed to reach agreement.
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The ratified contract promises the safeguarding of quality jobs and public revenues. Bargaining team chair Colleen MacLeod said: “Our members stood strong. They held strong lines, they talked to their communities – and they won”.
The agreement marks a significant improvement from the employer’s last proposition on 4 July 2024.
The contract stipulates a pledge of no store closures and limits on the number of agency stores, which are similar to private liquor outlets.
The deal includes wage, severance and benefit enhancements and the creation of 1,000 permanent part-time retail positions in retail and 60 permanent full-time roles in logistics.
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By GlobalDataMacLeod added: “In my 27 years at the LCBO, the employer has continuously casualised the workforce, so that people wouldn’t get guaranteed hours, benefits or any hope of permanent work. Permanent part-time nearly went extinct. I am beyond proud that we fought back and won these permanent jobs – it will improve the lives of workers and their families for many years to come.”
The union representing the workers, the Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU/SEFPO), has indicated that while the contract is a step forward for Ontario, the strike has also highlighted concerns with Premier Doug Ford’s alcohol policies.
OPSEU/SEFPO president JP Hornick also criticised Doug Ford’s approach, suggesting it favours corporate interests over public welfare.
“Ontarians are more aware than ever that Ford’s plan isn’t for them – it’s for big box CEOs. We have no doubt that Ford’s webs of corporate buddies and corrupt backroom deals will continue to be exposed,” JP Hornick stated.
