Press Release: YVR attempts to limit food service workers’ free speech rights on Airport Workers Day

For Immediate Release

Vancouver, BC – YVR marks the inaugural national “Airport Workers Day” by challenging workers’ free speech at the BC Labour Board.

Airport concession workers at SSP Group-operated outlets have served 72-hour strike notice and already taken limited strike action. The workers, represented by UNITE HERE Local 40, may take further strike action which could impact thirteen airport food outlets.

The Vancouver Airport Authority is attempting to limit workers’ attempt to picket inside the airport and notify travellers of which restaurants are on strike, in the event that a strike is called.  The Union is asking the Labour Board to direct the Airport Authority to permit such activity, which was permitted in 2010 during a previous labour action.

“It is hypocritical of YVR to be celebrating workers’ important contributions on the one hand, but then denying them a living wage and their ability to protest about that wage,” said Zailda Chan, President of UNITE HERE Local 40.

Contact: Michelle Travis, [email protected], 778-960-9785

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