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HAMILTON—GFL Environmental’s refusal to bargain fair wages and benefits for the waste and recycling truck operators deemed “essential” during the pandemic is pushing Local 4268 members towards a strike, said Unifor.
“When GFL customers needed curbside and commercial services during the pandemic, we were there,” said Local 4268 President Debbie Montgomery. “It’s only fair that waste and recycling truck operators are recognized in their next contract.”
A one-year extension agreement agreed to at the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic expired on April 26, 2021. Since then, negotiations for a new agreement have been underway.
“Our members are still out in the public every day and exposed. They have earned fair compensation and respect,” said Unit Chairperson Paul McKee.
On July 13, 2021, the parties met with the appointed officer from Disputes/Resolutions Department of the ORLB, who subsequently issued a “no-board” report to be posted on July 19. As a result, if the company and Local 4268 cannot negotiate an agreement by the legal deadline of August 5, a work interruption could occur.
Unifor represents about 180 members who primarily drive and operate commercial waste/ recycling trucks and do residential pickup in Hamilton-Wentworth but also service commercial customers in Brantford-Brant county and Norfolk-Haldimand counties.
Unifor is Canada’s largest union in the private sector, representing 315,000 workers in every major area of the economy. The union advocates for all working people and their rights, fights for equality and social justice in Canada and abroad, and strives to create progressive change for a better future.
For media inquiries or to arrange interviews via Facetime, Zoom, or Skype please contact Unifor Communications Representative Ian Boyko at @email or 778-903-6549 (cell).
