FFAW-Unifor Calls Out OCI for Failing to Provide Adequate Work for Fortune Plant
October 3, 2024
ST. JOHN’S, NL – FFAW-Unifor, as representatives of employees at Ocean Choice International groundfish plant in Fortune, is calling out processing company Ocean Choice International (OCI) for failing to provide adequate work for employees, leaving approximately 50 people in the region vulnerable and without sufficient weeks to file for off-season benefits.
“Our members are the backbone of this facility, and they are facing uncertainty and severe financial strain due to a clear lack of planning and foresight by OCI,” says Greg Pretty, President of FFAW-Unifor. “OCI continues to fail in prioritizing or protecting the long-term stability and prosperity of its workforce.”
The move is in-line with the concerning trend by OCI and other companies towards favouring the Temporary Foreign Workers program rather than prioritizing ways to increase local recruitment and retention in coastal communities.
“Our members deserve better. They deserve the dignity of a steady paycheck, and the security of knowing that their hard work is valued. The failure to provide work undermines the very foundation of our members’ lives, jeopardizing not only their financial well-being but also the quality of life for their families and the sustainability of their rural communities,” Pretty explains.
OCI received an export exemption for small yellowtail flounder in return for guaranteeing the employees 15-weeks of work annually. Thus far in 2024, these employees average only 8 weeks.
FFAW-Unifor is requesting that, with encouragement from the provincial government, OCI must urgently outline the steps they will take to reverse this trend as well as provide clear commitment to securing long-term stable work.
“FFAW-Unifor will not stand aside while our members’ livelihoods continue to be put at risk. We will continue to fight for fair treatment and job security. It is time for OCI to step up, take responsibility, and secure the future of its workforce in Fortune,” Pretty concludes.
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