Article content
Workers at the Amazon Fulfillment Center in Nisku are one step closer to unionizing.
Article content
Teamsters Local Union 362 has filed an application with the Alberta Labor Relations Board to secure a vote for union representation at the Nisku facility.
Richard Brown, president and business agent with Teamsters Local Union 362, said he is excited about putting the application forward.
“The people that work there are quite vocal in the fact that they need some representation and better working conditions,” said Brown.
The move comes after a failed attempt at forming a union at the Amazon site last fall due to not reaching the necessary number of signed cards from workers. Under provincial rules, at least 40 per cent of employees need to be in favor of forming a union to be awarded a representation vote.
“We were able to hit our target numbers a lot sooner than we were in September, showing that people have interest and are looking for change,” said Brown. “Everyone deserves a working wage and we’re committed to trying to get them that.”
Article content
Brown said it is now a “waiting game” to see if the labor board agrees they have the numbers needed to issue a representation vote.
“We are very optimistic,” said Brown.
Teamsters Local Union 362 said “several” Amazon sites across North America are in the process of following similar steps to those being taken in Nisku.
“Amazon workers near and far have been vocal about their desire for change, and we will support them in any way we can to ensure they can achieve the work environment and employment rights they’re looking for,” said Chance Hrycun, vice-president with the local union in a news release.