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Closure deal agreed to between Diageo and union By Ron Giofu
A ratification vote was held on the weekend to approve a deal between Diageo and Unifor Local 200, with the agreement putting the closure one step closer to happening. Unifor Local 200 president John D’Agnolo said the agreement was, in part, to approve new language in the contract but also to secure packages for staff still in the St. Arnaud St. plant once the plant closes in February. The current contract has now expired, and D’Agnolo said the union had to do what it could under the circumstances to get as much as possible for the over 160 workers at the plant. “We were under pressure to get something before the contract was done,” he said. Had no deal have been reached, Diageo would have only been legally responsible to pay out the minimums
under government legislation. While not satisfied with the deal because it means the plant is closing, D’Agnolo said they got as much as they could for the unionized workforce. “I had hopes to keep the plant open,” he said. “So did the workers.” D’Agnolo admitted it was hard signing the agreement, but the union will do what it can going forward to support the workers. He called on all three levels of government to join in, noting part of the agreement will assist workers in resume writing, job searches and gaining other skills to find employment elsewhere. “Some people have left already,” he added, as he is aware of workers going to Stellantis, Ford and other workplaces. “It’s the right decision because the plant did close,” he said. There is still hope that another company could come
in, buy the plant and keep workers employed. D’Agnolo said he would welcome such a scenario. “I would be happy if someone came in there,” he said. Governments and other partners should focus on making something happen at that site. D’Agnolo said everyone’s exit package will be different as they are based on seniority. He emphasized the union will “focus on doing what we can,” and support the workers for the long-term. “Nothing is worse than not knowing what your future holds,” he said. Mayor Michael Prue said “we knew this day was coming,” adding he has had discussions with union officials as the process unfolded. He hopes to speak with Premier Doug Ford soon about what the province can do to help get another company to come to Amherstburg.
Continued on Page 10
Amherstburg Fire Department gets $5,000 grant from Enbridge By Ron Giofu The Amherstburg Fire Department has received a financial boost to assist training for new and veteran firefighters. The fire department received a grant for $5,000 from Enbridge Gas through the company’s Safe Community Project Assist program, one that is run with the Fire Marshal’s Public Safety Fire Council (FMPFSC). The money has been used to purchase new and updated books and manuals for new firefighters and to keep existing firefighters and senior staff up to speed. The $5,000 given to Amherstburg is part of a $125,000 investment from Enbridge Gas that is shared with 25 Ontario fire departments, in communities where Enbridge operates. “At Enbridge Gas, safety is more than
The Amherstburg Fire Department received $5,000 from Enbridge Gas for training materials. From left: Deputy Chief Ron Meloche, Mayor Michael Prue, Megan Shannon from Enbridge, Chief Michael Mio and Deputy Chief Dan Monk.
a priority – it is one of our core values that guides everything we do,” said
Megan Shannon, advisor of municipal and stakeholder engagement with
Enbridge. “This initiative helps departments purchase essential training materials that enhance life-saving firefighting techniques. Since its launch in 2012, 294 grants have been awarded, each one a reflection of our commitment to supporting first responders and strengthening community safety.” The Safe Community Project Assist program is one of two programs run through Enbridge, the other being Project Zero, which helps distribute carbon monoxide detectors. Amherstburg received funding under Project Assist while Windsor, LaSalle and Kingsville fire departments received Project Zero assistance. Amherstburg fire chief Michael Mio said the $5,000 grant is a big help to the department.
Continued on Page 5
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