Out-of-Work Tree-Fruit Workers Rally in Kelowna
Kelowna, B.C. – A group of laid-off workers from the B.C. Tree Fruits Co-operative gathered at the east side of the William R. Bennett Bridge in Kelowna yesterday morning to remind the public of the ongoing hardships they face following the co-op's closure.
Holding signs and banners, the workers—both unionized and non-unionized—raised awareness about their unpaid wages and the lack of termination pay, which has left many in financial distress.
The workers, represented by UFCW Local 247, are still waiting for compensation while the co-op undergoes creditor protection. "The government has provided $4 million to help growers, but the workers who helped keep the industry alive are still being asked to wait for what they are owed," said Dan Goodman, President of UFCW Local 247.
The union continues to work with the court-appointed Monitor overseeing the co-op's insolvency and is helping workers apply for compensation through Canada’s Wage Earner Protection Program (WEPP). While some compensation may come through WEPP, the union is pushing for the provincial government to offer more direct support for the affected workers.
Out-of-Work Tree-Fruit Workers Rally in Kelowna
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