Residents at Villa Colombo Face Dangerous Negligence from Replacement Workers as Strike Continues

TORONTO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The members of CUPE Local 5525 have been on strike since May 28^th, after rejecting an offer filled with concessions that attack their benefits, and the sick days they need to provide safe and respectful care to their clients. The employer, Villa Colombo Home for the Aged, hired replacement (scab) workers to do the work of the members of 5525 while they are striking. After weeks of mistreatment and neglect, the residents and family members of Villa Colombo are speaking out.

The members of CUPE 5525, many of whom have over a decade of service in this community, have deep, trusting relationships with these residents and caring for them in their home. These residents have lived in this community for years, and all require some level of personal care to maintain their independence and live their golden years in dignity. The residents have been complaining that the replacement workers show up late, don’t perform the needed tasks, and in some cases, much worse.

The residents are tired of Villa Colombo driving down the quality of their care to try and punish the members of 5525 for forming a union. Several residents and their family members are prepared to tell their stories to the media, to ensure the word gets out that all is not well in their community.

The Union and residents of Villa Colombo, call on Villa Colombo Homes for the Aged, as well as the parent organization Villa Charities, to immediately stop using replacement scab labour that is putting seniors at risk, and return to the bargaining table with a meaningful offer on Sick Days and a benefits package that reflects the value the members of 5525 bring to the community.

:pp/cope491