Amazon’s Decision to Close Quebec Warehouses and Lay Off Workers Sparks Legal Action
Union Demands Reopening of Warehouses and Compensation for Laid-Off Employees
The Federation of National Trade Unions has launched a campaign against Amazon’s decision to close all seven of its warehouses in the Canadian province of Quebec and terminate more than 1,900 workers. The union is petitioning a court to annul the layoffs and order the reopening of the warehouses, as well as payment of compensation and damages.
Background on the Dispute
Amazon’s decision to close the warehouses and lay off workers comes after the union had been negotiating with the company since July to create a collective agreement for 300 employees at a warehouse in Laval, a suburb of Montreal. The closures were announced on January 22, less than a year after the Laval workers unionized. Amazon claims that the decision was not related to the unionization effort.
Union’s Reaction
The Federation of National Trade Unions is accusing Amazon of attempting to circumvent its obligations under the Labour Code with its "new business model," which involves using subcontractors to deliver packages. The union’s president, Caroline Senneville, stated that the court should recognize that this scheme violates the law and order the reinstatement of Amazon’s workers.
Call to Action
The union has launched a campaign calling on consumers to boycott Amazon by not shopping on its online platform and cancelling Amazon Prime subscriptions. The union is urging customers to join the boycott and support the workers who have been affected by Amazon’s decision.
Government’s Response
Francois-Philippe Champagne, Canada’s industry minister, has also spoken out against Amazon’s decision, calling it unacceptable and calling for a review of the business relationship between the company and the Canadian government.
Global Context
Amazon has 1.55 million employees worldwide, with many of its warehouse workers in Europe covered by sectoral bargaining agreements. Employees at facilities in New York and Philadelphia have unionized, but still lack a contract.
FAQs
Q: What is the reason behind Amazon’s decision to close its warehouses in Quebec?
A: Amazon claims that the decision was not related to the unionization effort, but the union believes that it is an attempt to circumvent its obligations under the Labour Code.
Q: What is the union’s response to Amazon’s decision?
A: The Federation of National Trade Unions is petitioning a court to annul the layoffs and order the reopening of the warehouses, as well as payment of compensation and damages.
Q: How can consumers support the workers affected by Amazon’s decision?
A: The union is urging consumers to boycott Amazon by not shopping on its online platform and cancelling Amazon Prime subscriptions.
Q: What is the government’s response to Amazon’s decision?
A: Francois-Philippe Champagne, Canada’s industry minister, has called the decision unacceptable and is calling for a review of the business relationship between the company and the Canadian government.
