Message from OFL President, Chris Buckley
Greetings,
As the summer draws near, we want to keep the heat on the government regarding Bill 148, Fair Workplaces, Better Jobs Act to ensure that meaningful labour law reform is the outcome in the fall.
While winning a $15 minimum wage in 2019 is positive, it is critical that we continue to push for the changes to the Labour Relations Act (LRA) and Employment Standards Act (ESA) that were recommended by the OFL.
Here are two ways you can be part of making it fair:
1) Join our Day of Action on June, 20th
– Call your MPP and the Premier to speak to the needs of workers across our province
– Email your MPP to inform them of the importance of the legislation
– Post on your social media using these hashtags: #MakeitFair #15andFairness #UnionSolidarity #ONPoli #DecentWork
While this legislation is a step in the right direction, workers like you and me, who need changes now must make our voices heard – don’t let Premier Wynne keep you waiting. RSVP here to stay up to date with the Day of Action: makeitfair.ca/dayofaction
2) Register to present to the Standing Committee on Finance and Economic Affairs for Bill 148
There are two weeks of public hearings scheduled for this summer (July 10-14 and 17-21).
The committee hearings are an excellent opportunity to further push for amendments to the legislation. The business lobby will be strong, which is why need to register immediately to ensure our voices are heard!
Who should present?
While it is important to hear from organized labour leadership during these public consultations, MPP’s will be particularly affected by the stories of front line workers, those that can share their lived experiences, and can assist in personifying our proposals. We encourage your delegation to ensure it gives voice to workers that will benefit from expanded recommendations and meaningful legislative change, like workers of colour, women, and persons of all ranges of ability.
Contact the clerk for the Standing Committee on Finance and Economic Affairs, Eric Rennie today to register to speak on Bill 148.
Eric Rennie – Tel: 416-325-3506 or Email: erennie@ola.org
Every organization is permitted to register for a presentation and individuals may also make presentations. I strongly encourage you to invite labour leaders and workers throughout your union to register as individuals to further strengthen the voice of labour at these hearings.
Unfortunately, we do not yet have confirmation of the locations for these meetings. However, that information will be shared as soon as it becomes available. In addition, there will be provincial training sessions to ensure presenters are confident and prepared to succeed at each hearing.
Don’t waste any time, call or email Eric Rennie and ask to be added to the speaking list!
In solidarity,
Chris Buckley
President, Ontario Federation of Labour (OFL)