Ontario’s Frontline WSIB Staff Continue Fight for Fair Wages, Safe Workplaces, and Job Security as Solidarity Builds Across Unions

 TORONTO – Members of the Society of United Professionals, IFPTE Local 160, will join the ongoing picket line at 200 Front Street West on Monday, June 9, 2025, in support of 3,600 striking WSIB workers represented by the Ontario Compensation Employees Union (OCEU/CUPE 1750). This show of solidarity comes as OCEU recently marked two weeks on strike, demanding fair wages, safer workplaces, and an end to outsourcing critical Ontario jobs to U.S. firms.

Approximately 170 Society members will walk the picket line alongside OCEU/CUPE 1750 members. The action coincides with the 20th anniversary of the Society’s own 105-day strike at Hydro One – a pivotal moment in Ontario’s labour history.

Speakers at a 10:00 a.m. rally will include:

  • Matt Biggs, International President, IFPTE
  • Rebecca Caron, President, Society of United Professionals, IFPTE Local 160
  • Vicky Power, Local Vice-President, Hydro One

“Ontario’s public sector workers are united in their call for respect, fair pay, and safe working conditions,” Matt Biggs, International President of the Society of United Professionals. “We know firsthand the challenges of standing up for what’s right, and we’re proud to stand shoulder to shoulder with OCEU/CUPE 1750 members as they fight for all Ontarians.”

Since the walkout began, WSIB staff have faced chronic understaffing, stagnant wages, and increased pressure to outsource vital services. The ongoing strike highlights the urgent need for government and management to invest in Ontario jobs and public services, rather than sending work south of the border.

“We’re incredibly grateful to the Society of United Professionals and IFPTE for standing with us on the picket line,” said Harry Goslin, President of OCEU/CUPE 1750. “Their solidarity sends a powerful message – not just to our employer, but to the entire labour movement – that when workers stand together, we are stronger, louder, and impossible to ignore.”

A small Society delegation will also attempt to deliver a letter of solidarity on behalf of 90,000 IFPTE members across North America to WSIB President Jeffery Lang, underscoring growing concern over the Ford government’s inaction on dangerous workloads and the outsourcing of Ontario jobs.

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For more information, or to arrange an interview with a spokesperson, please contact:

Bill Chalupiak

CUPE Communications Representative

[email protected]

416-707-1401                                                                                                                          mb/cope491

Category: Solidarity