50 days in the cold for locked-out workers

On Tuesday, February 7, members of Unifor Local 597 at D-J Composites Inc. in Gander, Newfoundland will have spent 50 days in the cold since being locked-out by the company just days before the holidays. To mark the day, Unifor members and locals across Canada are asked to take a picture holding a message of support and solidarity from your local to #Unifor597. Please share your solidarity photo and the call for D-J Composites to negotiate a fair deal on social media (Facebook and Twitter).

“These workers have stood strong on the picket line. Their resolve and solidarity has been truly inspiring,” said Unifor Atlantic Regional Director Lana Payne. “On Tuesday, let’s join to spread the word online that we are united, and to tell D-J Composites to return to the table to negotiate a fair agreement.”

On Tuesday, February 7 help get the message of solidarity trending. Please share your solidarity photo on the Unifor Facebook page and tweet out using the #Unifor597 hashtag.

Download a sign of support here and find a sample tweet here.  

The aerospace workers in Local 597 were locked-out on December 19, 2016 after working for two years without a contract. The US owned firm demanded wage freezes for three to five years from most workers while offering pocket change increases to the rest.  After receiving a 100 per cent strike mandate the workers were still willing to continue negotiations with the company, only to suddenly find themselves locked-out for the holidays.

“We are so grateful for the kindness and support that our members have received,” said Carolyn Wrice, President of Unifor Local 597. “The generosity of our fellow brothers and sisters has been truly warming during this long frigid lock-out.” 

Financial assistance is also being accepted by e-transfer or cheque.

Donate via e-transfer at @email with security answer local597 or by sending a cheque to Unifor Local 597 with D-J Composites Unit in the memo line to:

Unifor Local 597

Attn: Carolyn Wrice, P O Box 922, St. John’s NL A1C 5L7.

For further information: please contact Unifor Communications National Representative
Shelley Amyotte at @email or 902-717-7491 (cell).