Dear Unifor Members at Kuehne + Nagel Edwards Location,6335 Edwards Blvd

An application to terminate bargaining rights was filed with the Ontario Labour Relations Board (OLRB) by some members at Edwards on April 18, 2023. This application is essentially to ask the OLRB to hold a confidential vote on whether you want to remain with the union or choose to go without union representation at the Edwards location only. A decision on whether to hold a vote should be issued by Friday, April 21. If ordered, this will be an important decision that will have significant implications for your employment and working conditions.

It is important to highlight that leaving the union means that you will cease to have a collective agreement. A collective agreement is a legally binding contract between the union and your employer that outlines your rights and protections as an employee. Without a collective agreement, your employer will have the ability to make changes to your working conditions without your input, leaving you vulnerable to unfair treatment and exploitation. The employment standards minimums are the only binding protection you will have.

Leaving the union also means that you will no longer have access to the support and resources provided by the union. This includes access to representation, advocacy for fair wages and working conditions, support in the event of workplace harassment or discrimination and the ability to have a grievance procedure.

It is important to question the motivations of those who wish to leave the union. While it is understandable that some may have concerns about union representation, it is important to ensure that any decision made is in the best interest of all workers and not just a few. Without union representation, there is a risk of individual workers being pitted against each other and losing the collective bargaining power that the union provides.

Members should ask themselves how will decisions be made and how will monetary incentives be distributed?

We understand that this is a difficult decision and that you may face challenges and uncertainty regardless of the outcome. However, we urge you to carefully consider the implications of leaving the union and to ensure that any decision made is informed, thoughtful, and in the best interest of all workers.

We will keep you informed as the process unfolds, and remember this decision is yours and it is confidential. Should a vote be ordered neither the applicants, the company nor the union will know how you have voted.

We’re also here to answer any questions you may have. This is very important; it will have impacts on your working conditions and those of your co-workers. If you have questions, please reach out through the contact below.

Hassan Mirza

National Representative

[email protected]

647-892-2341

Kat Leonard

National Representative

[email protected]

416- 435-9007