Bill 21 was recently used to legislate 3,500 striking CUPE 873 Ambulance Paramedics back to work while they were in the process of contract negotiations.

  The outrage from unions and public supporters across Canada was palpable.  This was the first time a government in Canada has imposed a collective agreement on public sector employees.

“Union members have the right to negotiate freely and to reach a fair and respectful settlement.  Bill 21 takes away that fundamental right,” says Telecommunications Workers Union National President, George Doubt.  With this move by government, concerns that this form of legislation could be used again are well founded.

To read a Bill 21 fact sheet, please refer to the following line:
http://www.cupe.bc.ca/files/fact_sheet_an_attack_on_your_collective_bargaining_rights_nov_13.pdf

The TWU does not support Bill 21 and encourages all members to participate in the following protests scheduled in B.C.:

Monday, November 30th – Vancouver
What:        Vancouver – Point Grey BC Liberal Holiday Party
Time:        6 – 7:30 p.m.
Where:    University Golf Club, 5185 University Boulevard
Join Santa as he greets guests and delivers the spirit of holidays!

Wednesday, December 2nd – Victoria
What:        A rally at Oak Bay – Gordon Heal Liberal MLA Ida Chong’s
        Constituency Office
Time:        Noon – 1 p.m.
Where:    #223 – 3930 Shelbourne Street, Victoria

Saturday, December 5th – Kamloops
What:        A rally to protest Bill 21 and promote free collective bargaining
Time:        Noon
Where:    Riverside Park Band Shell (corner of Lorne Street West and 2nd
        Avenue), Kamloops
** A collection of hats, toques, warm clothing and mittens will be made for those in need.

Saturday, December 5th – Queen Charlotte
What:        Petition Signing and Food Bank Drive
Time:        11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Where:    City Centre Stores, 121 3rd Avenue, Queen Charlotte

Sunday, December 6th – Chase
What:        Public Assembly in Support of Health Care and Ambulance
        Services
Time:        Noon
Where:    Walk from the Health Centre Parking Lot to the basement of the
        Community Hall (Chase Street then along Shuswap Avenue)
** Hot Dogs and Hot Chocolate will be provided!  Dress warmly!