OTTAWA – The Ford government introduced legislation yesterday, Bill 88 or the Working for Workers Act, with sub-standard rights and conditions for app-based gig workers. The Canadian Union of Postal Workers sees this legislation as a setback for workers who are organizing to use collective strength to improve their work lives.
CUPW supports Gig Workers United, app-based delivery workers who are organizing in Toronto and the GTA.
Just last week, gig workers received a decision from a Ministry of Labour officer that confirms they are employees, and orders Uber to start complying with the Employment Standards Act with things including minimum wage – real minimum wage, for all time at work – breaks, vacation pay, and other basic rights of employees in this province.
“This legislation comes just when it’s clear to the Ford government and Uber that gig workers are winning, and that we’re on track to achieve the full employment rights they’re entitled to,” says Jan Simpson, CUPW National President. “The Conservatives misrepresent this legislation as a step forward, but it’s really designed as a barrier to unionization and a distraction from the fight for equal rights and employee status.”