THUNDER BAY -- The Labour Action Centre for laid off Alstom and Bombardier workers and their families is set to reopen on Tuesday for in-person services.
The centre, located on Gore Street, has been virtual since last December due to COVID-19 restrictions and precautions.
“We are happy to be reopening and being able to see our former colleagues as we assist them through their adjustment process. The pandemic has presented challenges for many of the laid off workers as they transition into re-training or new employment opportunities. That being said, we are continuing to hear of more success stories of our clients finding new and exciting careers.” said centre co-ordinator Stephen Margarit, in a release issued on Friday.
The centre is a resource hub for workers laid off at the recently purchased plant, offering a wide variety of service such as training, counselling, career searches and referrals to other community partners.
In addition to in-person services, workers and their families can find information on the action centre's website, www.tb-black.org, or its Facebook page to stay up-to-date and learn of new employment opportunities and other developments.
“Our peer helpers have been calling through our worker list to check-in during the stay-at-home order. They have been there to listen and offer any assistance,” Margarit said
“During these unprecedented times, we want to offer our services that best meet the needs of our clients, so we will continue to offer virtual services to those who are still not comfortable with in-person visits.
“During these unprecedented times, we want to offer our services that best meet the needs of our clients, so we will continue to offer virtual services to those who are still not comfortable with in-person visits.
Margarit noted that the centre is for all former workers and their families, not just those represented by UNIFOR or COPE.
At its peak, the plant, formerly owned by Bombardier, employed more than 1,000 people. Fewer than 500 remain today.
The Labour Action Centre is located at 112 Gore St. West in the UNIFOR Local 1075 office building and is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m..
