August 29, 2024
Unifor members and community supporters united this week at a solidarity action to bolster Local 1541 members on strike at Best Theratronics since May 1, 2024.
“It’s been 118 days too long. We’re here to send a message to this employer that we’re here to fight,” Ontario Regional Director Samia Hashi told striking workers and supporters at the action.
Members from multiple Unifor locals rallied at the picket line outside the Best Theratronics facility in Kanata, Ont., on Aug. 27, 2024. Locals present included 8300, 34, 584, 1541, 6004 , 222, 1541 and 414.
Ontario Regional Council Chair Shinade Allder brought a message of support from the Council vowing “we will fight back.”
The Unifor Local 1541 members, who manufacture medical equipment used in cancer treatments, took strike action after Best Theratronics offered a zero per cent wage increase. It is the only offer the company has tabled and they have refused to return to the bargaining table.
Members from the Public Service Alliance of Canada at Best Theratronics also began strike action on May 10.
The company has been using unqualified managers and non-union workers as scab labour. Read Unifor National President Lana Payne’s message about the company’s union busting tactics.
On the Victoria Day long weekend, company owner Krishnan Suthanthiran sent an outrageous email rant painting Canadian workers as entitled and lazy.
“You deserve every day to be thanked for making products that keep people alive. The work done in this plant saves lives. But the boss in this plant doesn’t start from that place of gratitude. The NDP family is with you 100 per cent because we know the rights we have as Canadians come from picket lines,” said Ottawa Centre MPP Joel Harden at the action.
Unifor Local 1541 member Jonathan Fournier expressed determination to see the strike through and appreciation to supporters for joining the workers on the picket line.
“Thanks for being here, everyday we work hard. Zero per cent is not okay. Hopefully we get this resolved soon.”
