WSIB workers walk off job for first time in organization’s history

A picket line was spread across Tecumseh Road East on Thursday, marking WSIB’s first strike in its 100-year history.

Workers with the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) walked off the job on Thursday across the province, the first time in its 100-year history. Those on the picket lines are represented by Canadian Union of Public Employees/Ontario Compensation Employees Union (CUPE/OCEU).

Among those striking was a picket line out front of Windsor-Tecumseh MPP Andrew Dowie’s office on Tecumseh Road East. Dozens marched up and down the sidewalks, earning lots of honks and cheers from drivers passing.

“We had a 96 per cent strike vote, which was highly indicative of how much we are fighting for this,” said Carla Mallett, an appeals resolution officer with WSIB.

“It’s great to have so many people of Windsor driving by and honking for us. It’s a great feeling.”

Mallett added that she hopes the strike will bring more cooperation and a “respectful offer” from the employer.

“The WSIB has provided $4 billion in rebates to employers of Ontario, yet they are forgetting about the individuals who work for them, who are performing that work that enabled that surplus,” she said.

“We want to be respected. There’s an inefficient amount of people doing the work. We’re under heavy workloads. It’s a toxic workplace. We need better training for those coming into the organization. I’ve been here for 25 years and I see a definite decline in that area.”

Mallett said this being the first time employees have walked off the job for a strike, it speaks volumes to the management.

“Jeffrey Lang, in particular, has spewed lies really, about the bargaining process in order to try to get individuals across that picket line and get back to work,” said Mallett.

“It’s highly offensive.”

In a news release sent out Thursday afternoon, the WSIB said the organization is still at the bargaining table and hasn’t heard from the union since Monday. The most recent offer has been submitted and is waiting for a response.

“Our top priority Is helping people,” said Lang, president and CEO of WSIB.

“Rather than pursue further disruption, the WSIB is focused on bargaining, and ensuring critical services continue to be offered. We will do everything in our power to support people who rely on what we do.”

Also in the news release, WSIB claimed union executives told members to call in and jam phone lines at WSIB. The WSIB said it has “re-deployed resources” to continue functioning.