labour councilCommunities across Ontario are joining the North American-wide movement for decent work and a $15 minimum wage and North Bay is no different.  

A forum on precarious labour, or jobs that don’t have consistent hours or security was held earlier this week. 

Organizer of the event is Past President of the Nipissing University Faculty Assocation Executive, Gyllian Phillips.  She says a five-person panel, including the local Labour Council, the Community Counselling Centre and a worker advocate was focused on finding solutions. 

Phillips says the overwhelming message was that this is an increasing problem across not only the region but province and country too. 

She says they need to work on a number of different fronts, to protect good jobs, but also to create community solidarity and work together.   She says actionable items include getting involved in the 15 and fairness campaign, revolving around minimum wage. 

They’re also looking to make a presentation with government reviews of labour standards and employment acts.   

Phillips says another motivating factor with holding this week’s event was the loss of good jobs with layoffs at Nipissing, the ONTC, the hospital and the Target closure.