LCBO bargaining to resume Wednesday, union says

For the first time in almost 2 weeks, there’s movement today in the LCBO strike. The union and the company announced negotiations resumed today toward a settlement of the dispute.

There is no word on how well the talks are going but they say they’re going to continue. And a lot of people are hoping they can make progress toward ending the strike, from the strikers themselves to the industries affected.

On day 13 of the strike, picketers in Hamilton were happy to hear from their union that talks are back on.

The Ontario Public Service Employees Union said it was going back to negotiations hoping for a fair deal, but saying “we will not back down from our core demands to protect good jobs and public revenues,” and “today will be an important test of whether the LCBO shares our vision” of the LCBO.

For his part, Premier Doug Ford said he’s excited about the negotiations and the entire province wants the strikers back at work.

The union members say the key issue is job security at an employer where 70% of the employees are casuals.

Tomorrow, July 18, 450 licensed grocery stores can order the ready-to-drink beverages for immediate sale.

And by October 31, the government says convenience stores will also be able to sell ready-to-drink beverages.

Strikers are worried that taking spirits out of the LCBO’s control will undermine the company’s future.

While the strike goes on, Restaurants Canada says this is a critical period for the industry.

They say the strike is going to hurt income for some restaurants and it’s vital that it comes to an end.