Sault Ste. Marie – On Thursday, August 13, 2015, approximately 400 workers will take part in an Ontario Labour Relations Board vote to decide whether to become unionized with the Public Service Alliance of Canada (PSAC).
Workers approached the union for representation due to concerns the Ontario Lottery and Gaming (OLG) Corporation’s privatization plans will lead to job losses in Sault Ste. Marie.
“In my opinion a unionized workplace at OLG ensures that workers have a voice in determining their working conditions, including negotiating fair wages, benefits and pensions”, says Joe Krmpotich, Sault Ste. Marie Ward Six City Councillor.
Publically-run lotteries have a better track record in increasing profits, providing much needed revenue for the Ontario government and host cities. The OLG’s privatization scheme could jeopardize this revenue, as a portion of profits will be shifted to the new private operator.
“PSAC continues our pledge to protect and promote quality public services and bring fairness to the OLG workplace”, states Sharon DeSousa, PSAC Ontario Regional Executive Vice-President. “Our union will provide a strong voice for Sault Ste. Marie workers and fight to ensure good jobs remain in The Soo”.
For more information please contact Lino Vieira (vieiral@psac.com) 416-577-0238.