All workers should matter in Canada

You or a friend were threatened with words or physical violence. Maybe at your childhood school, park, or neighbourhood street.

All of us have been in this position at least once, if not several times. 

Our country is in this position right now. President Donald Trump’s tariffs and daily taunts mark a new phase in our politics. 

It’s a test that will define our resolve as a country. 

More are acknowledging concerns New Democrat leaders have expressed for decades about deep integration with a single major trading partner. We have put ourselves in a vulnerable position, and there is a better way. 

We must build a more diversified, self-reliant economy with other trading partners, an east-west electrical grid, and other sustainable goals. We also need an approach that supports local jobs, local innovators, and local businesses.  

That insight takes me to a picket line in Kanata I visited again this week.

Workers at Best Theratronics — who are members of Unifor Local 1541 and PSAC-UNE Local 70369 — design and build award-winning cancer treatment technology. Their reward for this exceptional service has been a strike that is nearing the 300 day mark. 

Krishnan Suthanthiran, the company owner, caused this strike by insisting on a zero percent wage offer in January 2024. Suthanthiran has a history of coercive behaviour, asset stripping, and leaving others with the cleanup bill. These tactics are illegal, and even more concerning when radioactive materials are involved.   

That’s why this labour dispute falls squarely on the federal government’s shoulders, but it has done precious little. “A negotiated solution in the best outcome” is the only reply we get from Steven MacKinnon, the federal Labour Minister.  

That assumes this owner wants to negotiate. 

Recently Suthanthiran returned to the bargaining table with Unifor for only to face more accusations of bargaining in bad faith. As a deal was close last week, Suthanthiran continuously raised new issues and conditions to signing the agreement. He is likely to continue this strategy.

These tactics are illegal, but those responsible for enforcing the rules are silent. The referee in this fight has swallowed the whistle. 

Unifor filed an unfair labour practice complaint with the Canadian Industrial Relations Board (CIRB) in June 2024. Their hearing was in November 2024, with a reply promised to the Union “as soon as possible.” The CIRB has said nothing since.

The CIRB took action in the recent Canada Post strike that lasted a month. Minister MacKinnon ordered the CIRB to mandate binding arbitration at the Port of Montreal in November 2024 after a strike that lasted three days.  

“I guess we don’t matter” is what I heard yesterday from Dale, one of the Unifor 1541 strike captains. “I guess the rules don’t apply to us.” 

But Dale and his co-workers don’t fear bullies. They have held the line. These are proud skilled trades machinists, welders and other workers who make cancer treatment technology that saves lives.  

Unifor 1541 has picketed in the scorching heat, driving rain, and frigid cold. They are some of the toughest people I’ve ever met. 

Our labour rights are worthless if we aren’t prepared to fight for them. The members of Unifor 1541 know that. All workers should matter in Canada. 

Minister MacKinnon must intervene to help bring about a fair settlement at Best Theratronics now.