In the event of a work stoppage by the members of the International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE), MAHCP members are reminded that they cannot withdraw their services.
The IUOE strike – planned to start on Friday, Dec. 2, 2016, unless a deal can be reached beforehand – would affect the following sites: Concordia Hospital, Deer Lodge Centre, Grace Hospital, Health Sciences Centre, Inkster Laundry, Misericordia Health Centre, Seven Oaks General Hospital and Rehabilitation Centre for Children.
MAHCP received information from the Employer that they intend to “maintain operations to the greatest extent possible through the use of essential service employees and non-striking employees in the event of a potential strike within the bargaining unit.”
Since MAHCP members are under a different collective agreement, we must continue to work as normal.
While it may be difficult to do, you will need to cross the IUOE picket lines, should the strike go forward and picket lines be erected.
The Employer has asked that we let members know the following: Picketers are legally allowed to communicate information about the job action or potential strike, but they cannot impede or otherwise hinder the right to enter their place of work.
Similar to our union, some members of the IUOE Trades bargaining units will be designated as Essential Services employees, and therefore will be required to work even if their colleagues are on strike, under the terms of the Essential Services Act.
MAHCP President Bob Moroz does encourage our members who would like to walk with striking members of the IUOE Trades to do so, however, this must not be done on the Employer’s time, only before or after work, or during breaks.
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact President Moroz at bobm@mahcp.ca.