Work at Lafarge Canada’s Texada Quarrying ground to a halt Monday, October 17, as the company escalated contract negotiations by locking out its employees.
According to United Steelworkers spokesperson Earl Graham, Lafarge took action after mediation between the company and union in September failed to produce a contract. The union responded by rejecting a contract offer from the company, issuing an overtime ban and, later, a 72-hour strike notice. Approximately 70 members of Local 816 have been locked out.
“The issue, as we see it, is about respect and dignity,” said Graham. “The employer is trying to take away our seniority rights. That’s the main issue.”
Lafarge communications director Jennifer Lewis said the company and local have had a “respectful working relationship” for the past 15 years and the company appreciates the employees’ safe work.
“We would like to see a fair agreement that meets everyone’s needs,” said Lewis. “Given the bargaining committee’s rejection of the offer and strike notice without leaving the premises, we have no option but to move to a lockout situation in order to manage our business.”
The contract expired at the end of May, though negotiations began last winter. According to Graham, veteran mediator Vince Ready was brought in for two days at Lafarge’s request to help find a solution.
“We believe the offer made to the steelworkers bargaining committee recognizes the important role our employees play in the business, while ensuring we remain competitive for the long term,” said Lewis.
Graham said the union, which has represented Texada quarry workers since 1947, is not about to give up the fight to protect a cornerstone of the contract.
“We’re not about to give seniority rights up,” said Graham. “Without them, we have nothing.”
