Co-ops, Co-op members, and communities in Alberta are being held hostage by Unifor. That from Federated Co-op CEO Scott Banda as the union maintains what Banda says are illegal barricades at the Co-op refinery in Regina and at other FCL facilities. One of those is the Carseland Fuel Terminal near Calgary. Banda says Unifor is challenging the right of their business, and ultimately any business, to operate. The company-busting tactic is hurting everyone, according to Banda, from farmers to truckers to school buses. Word came out from the Municipalities of Saskatchewan convention in Regina than even emergency vehicles in this province are being affected by the Ontario-based union’s tactics. Federated says the illegal union activity is going to mean periodic fuel outages in Southern Alberta. The matter returns to court today (thurs) as the union faces a second contempt of court hearing concerning the rules for both sides in the dispute.
Regina Police say they are investigating five incidents of paintball damage to homes at locations across the city with another two incidents of paintball damage to both the home and a vehicle.
Federated Co-op has confirmed that all residences are owned by managers of the company.
Regina police say they are investigating and believe there may be a connection, but they will not confirm that at this time.
Last month, Regina Police said 14 individuals were arrested, after Unifor members had completely blocked the entrances and exits to the Co-op Refinery. Police said the picketers were advised that blocking the facility like that was in violation of a court order. All were charged with mischief.