Do you feel like spreading some kindness?
A smaller CUPE local of only 32 members, Local 4317, have been striking since September 22. They help connect Canada to the world in their work as shipping container transport agents in the Port of Montreal. As the winter months come, this striking Local could use a morale boost for their stand against contracting out.
Please send a quick message or letter of support to Local 4317 at custeau1@msn.com.
For more information, see this CUPE news article and the below notice from CUPE National:
“TO ALL CUPE CHARTERED ORGANIZATIONS
Dear Sisters, Brothers, and Friends:
The 32 members of CUPE Local 4317 have been on strike at the Port of Montreal since September 22. It has now been seven weeks since they have been fighting for a fair collective agreement, yet negotiations remain at a standstill.
These workers, transport agents for the Montreal Gateway Terminals company, play a vital role in the supply chain on which we all depend. Every day, they coordinate the arrivals and departures of containers, ensuring the port operates efficiently. Their struggle is simple and legitimate: to obtain decent wages and real respect for their work.
Rather than negotiating in good faith, the employer has chosen to review its technological needs and directly attack workers on the issue of reefer container management, a service that our members perform competently. This is a clear attempt to divert the debate and put pressure on the union rather than seek fair solutions. In the face of these maneuvers, union solidarity is more essential than ever. CUPE Local 4317 members need the support of their allies across the country to make their voices heard and remind everyone that at CUPE, no one fights alone.
We are calling on CUPE chartered organizations across Canada to stand in solidarity by sending letters of support and contributing financially to sustain their struggle.
Letters of support can be sent to: custeau1@msn.com.”
