Ninety-three days into their strike, Bank of Canada security guards continue to stand strong on the picket line, supported by union members across the country. Today, members of the USJE National Executive visited the picket line in Ottawa to show their solidarity and stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the striking workers as they continue their fight for a fair collective agreement.
Also joining the visit were Alex Creamer, Local President and member of the PA bargaining team, and Julie Nelson, a member of the PA bargaining team. Their participation highlighted the strong connection between bargaining teams and workers on the picket line, and the importance of supporting fellow members facing a difficult labour dispute.
The strike has not been without significant challenges. Workers were forced to contend with the employer’s use of replacement workers, a practice that undermines the right to strike and weakens the collective bargaining process.
In a major victory for the union, the Canada Industrial Relations Board ordered the Bank of Canada to stop using replacement workers during the dispute, reinforcing protections afforded to workers exercising their legal right to strike. This decision was an important milestone and a powerful reminder that workers’ rights must be respected. However, the dispute over replacement workers has continued, with PSAC filing a fourth unfair labour practice complaint since the strike began.
By joining the picket line, members of the National Executive, along with Alex Creamer and Julie Nelson, delivered a simple but important message: USJE stands firmly with the striking security guards and will continue to support them for as long as it takes. Their courage, resilience, and solidarity inspire all of us, and their fight is our fight.
Call to Action
Want to show your support for the striking Bank of Canada security guards? There are several ways:
- Walk the picket line and show your solidarity.
Spread the word by sharing information about the strike. - Donate to support striking workers.
- Send a letter to the Bank of Canada Board of Directors or your MP.
For details on how to get involved, visit the campaign page Support Bank of Canada Security Officers. Together, we can help these workers continue their fight for a fair collective agreement.