Striking Community Living London (CLL) workers took their job action to an east London neighbourhood Friday morning, targeting the residence of executive director Michelle Palmer. Approximately 600 members of OPSEU Local 166, who support individuals with developmental disabilities, have been on strike seeking a 6.5 per cent wage increase. This figure mirrors a raise granted to other Ontario public sector workers who were affected by the provincial government’s now-overturned public sector salary wage freeze. While other unionized public sector employees have negotiated compensation agreements following the court’s decision to quash the freeze, CLL workers have yet to receive similar compensation from the province. The picket line formed outside Palmer’s home on Friday, with picketers lining the sidewalk. A private security detail was present to monitor the demonstration, and individuals were observed video taping the activity from the road. Union leadership, while generally acknowledging Palmer’s limited control over provincial funding, are urging her to take a more active role in advocating for the workers’ demands. “Locally we cannot fix this because she does not have the money,” stated OPSEU 166 President Lisa Fewster. “And up until now, we have been targeting the government. But it’s time for her to step up and join us fighting for the funder to come to the table.” The current work stoppage is nearing its 11th week, surpassing the previous longest strike by Community Living London workers in 2007, which lasted nine weeks. That earlier dispute concluded when the province intervened to facilitate a wage settlement for all community living workers across Ontario.
