MONTREAL — Over 100 locked-out Prelco workers and their supporters gathered in front of this industrial glass manufacturer here Oct. 18 for a solidarity concert and food. The 90 members of the Confederation of National Trade Unions (CSN) have been locked out since June 19.
Members of area unions, including Teamster rail workers and Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers unionists, brought solidarity.
The CSN members responded to the lockout by voting to go on an unlimited strike. A key issue is higher wages to protect against inflation. The starting wage is 20 Canadian dollars ($14.40) an hour here, CA$5 less than at the company’s plant in Riviere-du-Loup in eastern Quebec.
“The boss raised the price of his thermal windows. What about the employees?” one locked-out worker told the Militant. “He’s made millions because of the workers. This is about going back with our heads held high.” He asked his name not be used for fear of retaliation by the bosses.
“This is to better divide us, to better rule us,” Michelle Pelletier, a leader of the fight, said, pointing to a letter the company sent to union members Oct. 8, circumventing the union negotiating team.
“We are very sorry about the impact of this situation on your life and families,” the letter read. “He’s the one who locked us out!” exclaimed Pelletier. “He says he has an offer to present to the union. So far, we haven’t seen anything.”
CSN union members at Kronos in Varennes on Montreal’s south shore donated CA$10,000 to the Prelco workers. “That’s where you see what solidarity is,” Pelletier said.
The CSN has launched a “Donate $50” campaign for Prelco union members that supporters can donate to. Make checks out to “STT Prelco-Montreal,” and send them to CCM-CSN, 1601 Avenue De Lorimier, Montreal, QC H2K 4M5. Join the picket line at 3740 Rue Dollard-Desjardins in Montreal.