LCBO Workers Overwhelmingly Vote in Favor of Strike Action

Employees of the Liquor Control Board of Ontario (LCBO) have decisively supported the potential for strike action as members of the Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU) voted overwhelmingly in favor. With a record-breaking voter turnout and 97 percent in agreement, more than 8,000 LCBO workers have signaled their readiness to take a stand.

The union’s stance was reinforced as OPSEU’s bargaining team prepares to resume negotiations this week armed with the powerful strike vote. The LCBO, Ontario’s primary liquor retailer, has acknowledged the vote and expressed commitment to continue discussions to reach a mutual agreement that averts the possibility of a strike.

In response to the strike mandate, the LCBO made public its intention to maintain operational preparedness in the event of a strike, emphasizing their goal of ensuring continued customer service even under such circumstances.

The Ontario government, including the Ministry of Finance, reacted to the news of the strike vote. A press secretary for Finance Minister Peter Bethlenfalvy conveyed disappointment at the turn of events and underscored the government’s position on consumer access and convenience regarding the ongoing negotiations.

The backdrop of these negotiations is colored by recent policy shifts and directives from Premier Doug Ford‘s administration. Reports indicated that an unexpected directive from Ford regarding the use of paper bags took senior LCBO executives by surprise, leading to urgent supply procurement efforts. Additionally, the province’s decision to broaden the sale of alcohol by allowing convenience stores and big box outlets to offer various alcoholic beverages starting in September has added complexity to the ongoing discussions.