Photo taken by MBC staff on location
Striking workers with the Norfolk Association for Community Living (NACL) took their demonstration to a residential neighbourhood this week, saying a recent decision to reject mediation‑arbitration has prolonged a labour dispute that has now stretched into its 11th week.
That was Shannon Giler, Vice‑President with OPSEU Local 204.
While less visible than their usual Queensway location, Giler said the demonstration this week is meant to send a message.
The demonstration marks the latest in a series of escalating actions by striking workers.
Last week, OPSEU members protested outside the Comfort Inn on Queensway in Simcoe, alleging replacement workers brought in during the strike were staying at the hotel.
Earlier in the dispute, workers also rallied outside the constituency office of Haldimand–Norfolk MPP Bobbi Ann Brady, calling for increased provincial funding for developmental services.
The strike began on May 25 and involves thousands of community and social‑service workers employed by nearly two dozen organizations across Ontario, including the Norfolk Association for Community Living.
The union maintains the dispute extends beyond local bargaining, arguing that years of provincial underfunding have left developmental‑service agencies without the financial resources needed to significantly improve wages.
Giler questioned what further progress could be made through continued local negotiations if the organization has already indicated it lacks the resources to improve its offer.
She added the union is also seeking increased provincial funding for community and social‑service agencies, saying better funding would help stabilize the workforce and improve services for clients.
Without additional investment, she warned the long‑term future of developmental services could be at risk.
The Norfolk Association for Community Living has previously stated that its priority throughout the labour disruption remains the health, safety, and well‑being of the individuals it supports.
Since the strike began, Community Participation, Job Links, and Passport services have been paused, while Supported Independent Living has continued at reduced service levels.
We have reached out to Barker for comment but have not heard back at this time.
