The union representing thousands of striking LCBO workers says a tentative deal is on hold because the Ontario government is refusing to sign a return-to-work protocol.
After two weeks of strike action, the LCBO announced it had reached a tentative agreement with its workers on Friday.
Pending ratification, the strike of Ontario’s liquor store employees would have ended at 12:01 a.m. Monday, with LCBO locations reopening as early as Tuesday.
At a press conference later Friday afternoon, however, a spokesperson for the Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU) said there is no deal without a signed return-to-work protocol.
READ MORE: LCBO workers’ union returns to bargaining table for second day
“We were prepared to announce this deal. The premier said there was a deal. But the employer is now refusing to sign that protocol,” OPSEU communications officer Katie Arnup said during the brief press conference.
Arnup added that the strike will continue as the union remains at the table and waits for the LCBO to sign the document.
The LCBO fired back, saying in a statement that it would file an unfair labour practice complaint against OPSEU because it introduced “significant new monetary demands” after the tentative deal was reached.
The strike, which began on July 5, is the first sudden work stoppage in the company’s history.
The disruption has caused the closure of stores across Ontario, and put a strain on restaurants and other retailers who serve alcohol.
READ MORE: Just 15 per cent of Ontarians say they’re affected by the ongoing LCBO strike: poll
A major sticking point for LCBO employees is the provincial government’s plan to expand ready-to-drink alcohol sales to grocery and convenience stores, which they have said threatens their job security.
This plan was fast-tracked earlier this week, moving the launch date from August to this month.
While striking, the union representing the workers planned several rallies, some of which happened in Hamilton.
Details of the deal have not yet been released.
This is a developing news story. More to come.
READ MORE: Ontario further speeds up alcohol expansion amid LCBO strike
