MISSISSAUGA, ONTARIO — United Food and Commercial Workers Canada Local 175 confirmed last week that 187 union workers would strike at the Maple Leaf Courtney Park facility in Mississauga.

The union stated its position after the strike began that the living wage for the Greater Toronto Area is estimated at more than $25 per hour and that most employees at the facility make far less than that. 

During the latest bargaining with the negotiating committee the union tried to express its side but both groups were unable to reach a deal before the strike.

“Our members are telling us – like so many workers out there – that the money just isn’t enough,” said Kelly Tosato, president of UFCW Local 175. “The members at Maple Leaf Courtney Park produce high-quality products that feed families across many of our communities in this country. The employer should be focused on negotiating a settlement with the union that recognizes the commitment these members have to their work, the food they make, and reflects that the employer is truly committed to the livelihoods and well-being of its employees.”

Maple Leaf Foods provided a statement to MEAT+POULTRY about its side of the negotiations and its decision to temporarily stop work at the facility.

“Maple Leaf Foods has been engaged in extensive negotiations with the union to try to arrive at a fair agreement,” the company said. “While we have not yet reached a settlement, we respect the collective bargaining process. As we anticipated the possibility of a strike, we have comprehensive contingency plans in place which we are executing, and we have temporarily suspended operations at the Courtney Park plant.” 

Picketing is expected to occur 24 hours a day at the Maple Leaf plant.