THUNDER BAY – The Bombardier Labour Action Centre will remain open until October.
The Bombardier Labour Adjustment committee, in conjunction with the Ontario government, announced the decision on Monday morning, saying there’s still a need in the community to support workers, employers and community partners affected by the labour market change and help 475 laid off employees who have lost their jobs figure out their next steps.
“And this role is even more important given the additional layoffs that have occurred this year and those that may be laid off in the spring,” said Iain Angus, chair of the adjustment committee.
“Not all of those who were part of the first rounds of layoffs have found alternative work and it is essential that they have a place to go to seek information, advice and key training, particularly as the unemployment rate remains high in the Thunder Bay area.”
Minister of Labour, Training and Skills Development Monte McNaughton said he wants workers to know the Ontario government wants to help.
“Anyone who is willing to work hard should reap the rewards and I’m pushing every day to make that a reality. This action centre is just one example of the millions of dollars we are investing to get workers across the province back on their feet.”
Bombardier began laying off workers as contracts for street cars began to be filled, and new contracts failed to materialize. The company, which was recently sold to Alstom, has picked up a few new orders, including one for light rail cars in southern California.
The action centre is open to anyone who has been laid off by Bombardier, regardless if they are represented by a union or not.
Former employees have been hired to co-ordinate the work at the centre and to act as peer helpers to laid-off workers and their families.
Counselling services are provided through a contract with the St. Joseph’s Behavioural Science Centre.
The centre, located at 112 Gores Street West, is operating virtually during the pandemic, and is available from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on week days.
