Police Smash Doors To Remove Striking CU Staff

HAMILTON, ONTARIO - Police here smashed open a door to gain entry to a branch of First Ontario Credit Union after 70 employees who are on strike locked themselves inside and padlocked the door. The employees had announced they would not leave until the credit union returned to the bargaining table.

The Hamilton Spectator reported there were no arrests made but the strikers have been told charges could be filed following the investigation. The employees are members of Local 343 of the Canadian Office and Professional Employees Union (COPE) and have been striking for six months over such issues related to sick pay, vacation and full-time positions.

There were 10 employees inside the branch at the time of the occupation; the Hamilton Spectator reported that none asked to leave. Standing outside the branch were supporters from other unions, including the United Steelworkers and Canadian Auto Workers.

"The reason I did this is because I have four kids," a crying Brenda Moulton told the newspaper. "I'm on strike. My husband lost his job. I had to do something. They have no idea what I'm going through."

The Hamilton Spectator quoted First Ontario CU CEO John Lahey as saying he was disappointed in the striker's actions and that the credit union is seeking to resolve the strike. "It's a difficult set of negotiations, but the credit union is not being unreasonable in my opinion," the newspaper quoted Layey as saying, adding the jobs pay approximately $35 per hour. "They're pretty well-paying jobs."