DHL Express Canada has served notice to Unifor that it could lock out workers after failing to reach an agreement on a new contract ahead of a June 8 deadline.
The union responded by filing strike notice. It will be in a legal strike position by June 8, Unifor announced in a release.
“This is the purest show of contempt and disrespect to our members. We won’t be intimidated by DHL’s pressure tactics,” said Unifor National president Lana Payne. “Our members deserve a fair contract. It’s time this employer delivers respect to its workers.”
The two parties have until June 8 to reach a tentative agreement. Otherwise, workers — including truck drivers — for DHL Express Canada will be able to strike as of 11 a.m. EST on June 8. The company will be in a legal lockout position as of 12:01 EST on the same day.
Unifor is demanding improved working conditions, including access to clean and secure bathrooms, fair wages, and addressing surveillance and automation issues.
“This conflict has major repercussions for our members here in Quebec, who are proud, experienced workers providing a vital service,” said Daniel Cloutier, Unifor Quebec director.
“Instead of recognizing their value, DHL is threatening their jobs and their livelihoods. Our members are united and will not be intimidated by this multinational giant.”
Unifor represents more than 2,100 DHL Express Canada workers, including drivers, in B.C., Quebec, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Nova Scotia, Ontario, and Alberta. Members voted 97% in favor of strike action last month.
The union says any strike action could cause major disruptions to the Canadian Grand Prix in Montreal June 13-15, as the company is responsible for transporting equipment and cars for the Formula One event.
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