Sharon DeSousa, PSAC National President, issued the following statement:

“For 100 days, workers at the Bank of Canada have been on the picket line fighting for a fair agreement and respect. They have shown solidarity and incredible determination. Our members have put solutions on the table, but the Bank refuses to end this strike.

In Montreal, our members reached a good deal that meets their needs and improves their working conditions without concessions. That agreement shows that the Bank has both the ability and the responsibility to reach a fair deal. Now they need to bring the same willingness to meet the concerns of workers at the bargaining table in Ottawa. 

Instead, the Bank continues to insist that Ottawa members accept an unfair deal with major concessions to their workplace rights. No worker should be forced to accept a bad deal. 

During this strike, the Bank has twice chosen to use replacement workers, resulting in multiple unfair labour practice complaints and rulings against its conduct. The Bank’s actions have only served to prolong the conflict instead of helping to resolve it. 

That is not the standard people in Canada should expect from one of the country’s most important public institutions. The Bank of Canada should be leading by example. 

After 100 days, there is a way to end this strike. We’ve offered the Bank two ways forward: withdraw the concession or agree to take the matter in arbitration. 

Our members are still fighting for a fair deal. Our solutions are on the table.  

The next move is up to the Bank.”