WINGHAM,
ON, April 25, 2024 /CNW/ - Today, Unifor
members rallied outside the Wescast plant in Wingham, Ontario. The protest is in response
to Wescast Industries continued refusal to pay approximately
$10 million in severance and
termination pay owed to workers who were laid off in 2023 following
the Company's decision to cease foundry operations.
"Unifor stands firmly with the workers of Wescast in their fight
for accountability from this overseas company," said Unifor
National President Lana Payne. "Our
union will not stand idly by as a multinational corporation
attempts to run from its contractual and legal obligations and
stiff the hard-working people of Wingham."
The protest brought together hundreds of Unifor members from
across southwestern Ontario and
was aimed at raising awareness of the situation facing
approximately 200 former Wescast employees. The union estimates
Wescast workers are owed approximately $10
million in termination and severance pay. The company's
China-based owners Bohong
Industries Group continues to withhold payment.
"It is incredibly shameful that despite years of dedicated
service, Wescast workers are being taken advantage of by this
company," said Unifor Ontario Regional Director Samia Hashi. "Our
union will not back down. We will not give up this fight until
workers are paid every cent they are owed for their years of blood,
sweat and tears."
The Wescast plant is a historic facility that previously
operated from 1902 until 2023 when Bohong Industries Group
announced it would cease operations. Workers at the facility
previously built cast components for the auto industry, some having
over 40 years of service.
On April 17, 2024 Unifor sent a
letter to the Ontario Director of
Employment Standards seeking intervention in the matter. A copy of
the letter was sent to Ontario
Minister of Labour David
Piccini.
Unifor is Canada's largest
union in the private sector, representing 315,000 workers across
various industries. The union advocates for the rights of all
working people, fights for equality and social justice, and strives
to create a better future for all Canadians.
SOURCE Unifor