The union representing striking LCBO workers now says the “strike will continue” because the LCBO is refusing to sign a return-to-work protocol document.
The sudden update at around 3 p.m. Friday has thrown into question the tentative deal that the two sides struck to end the two-week long strike.
“We were prepared to announce this deal. The premier said there was a deal, but the employer is now refusing to sign that protocol,” an OPSEU spokesperson said Friday.
“Without that document signed, we do not have a deal, the strike continues.”
“We remain at the table and will discuss the deal as soon as the employer signs the document.”
The strike, which began on July 5, led to the closure of stores across the province. It was set to end on July 22 at 12:01 a.m. with stores expected to reopen on Tuesday, July 23 after the tentative deal.
It’s unclear if that will happen now.
Earlier, the LCBO was celebrating the supposed deal.
“LCBO is now working to prepare our people and operations to return to business as usual … More information will be shared shortly,” read a statement from the LCBO.
“We recognize the disruption the strike caused for our employees, partners, and customers who rely on our services, and we thank everyone for their continued patience and understanding as we begin resuming regular operations,” continued LCBO’s statement.
Finance Minister Peter Bethlenfalvy said he was pleased that OPSEU and the LCBO reached an agreement to end the strike.
“This is a good deal for workers and welcome news for Ontarians. We look forward to working together to deliver choice and convenience across Ontario,” read his statement.
A major sticking point for the union had been the expansion of ready-to-drink beverages into grocery and convenience stores.
However, the Ford government doubled down on the issue, speeding up its timeline to allow licensed Ontario grocery stores to order and sell ready-to-drink alcoholic beverages and large beer pack sizes ahead of schedule, from August 1 to July 18.
While just 15 per cent of Ontarians said they were impacted by the LCBO strike, the same could not be said for Ontario restaurants.
Industry group Restaurants Canada said eateries across the province were struggling to procure booze amid the strike and empty shelves could be seen at wine retailers.
