Long-term care workers hold rally outside MPP Laurie Scott's Office demanding action on job cuts in Bobcaygeon

KAWARTHA LAKES, ON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Two weeks after holding a rally outside Bobcaygeon’s Case Manor, the union representing the PSWs, recreation staff, dietary aids, environmental technicians, and clerical staff at Bobcaygeon’s Case Manor are increasing the pressure. This escalation comes in the wake of the employer failing to engage with the union in any meaningful way to rectify the clear violation of their collective agreement by unilaterally cutting 1300 full-time hours from the monthly roster at the home.

Beyond this, the union is concerned about the impact of the employer's plan on members working under the Temporary Foreign Worker program. These workers make up a large segment of the staff compliment at the home. Many have made tremendous sacrifices to come to Canada and have been serving this community for years in hopes of gaining Canadian credentials as PSWs, and RNs. We question whether Sienna's plans may affect their ability to maintain the level of support the residents need past May.

Among the various excuses given to try and justify these staffing cuts, the employer claimed that apparent budget cuts by the government have forced them to reduce the shift hours. This, despite the Conservative Government’s announcement that a $4.9 billion investment was being made to aid with staffing and retention at Long-Term Care facilities in rural and Northern communities.

“Our members and the resident families deserve a straight answer,” said Joan Kelly, President of CUPE 3204. “The employer is trying to blame government cutbacks, but according to the government there is another $4.9 billion to help with staffing and retention in Long Term Care facilities. Someone isn’t being honest, and we deserve to know who.”

Members of CUPE local 3204 will be holding a rally outside of MPP Laurie Scott’s office in Lindsay on Friday, February 20, where they will deliver a letter to the MPP calling on her to pressure the employer to retract these dangerous cuts to working hours.

The rally will take place from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. outside the offices of MPP Laurie Scott. Media are invited to attend.

Who: The members of CUPE Local 3204 and community supporters

What: Protect Hours of Work Rally

Where: MPP Laurie Scott’s Office, 14 Lindsay Street North, Lindsay, ON K9V 1T4

When: Friday, February 20, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

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