Workers at Duke of Devonshire Retirement Residence join the union – UFCW 175

Ottawa – October 15, 2016 – Workers at the Duke of Devonshire Retirement Residence are the newest members of UFCW Canada Local 175 after voting to join the union.

Located in central Ottawa, the Duke of Devonshire Retirement Residence provides both independent supportive living accommodations and assisted living for residents at the facility.

"The workers were looking to gain wage increases, job security and achieve better health and welfare benefits," explains UFCW Canada Local 175 organizer Amy Tran. "Health and safety concerns, harassment and favoritism also played a part in why they wanted union representation."

The approximately 75 new members join the ever-growing Health, Office & Professional Employees (HOPE) Sector of Local 175. The members work as registered nurse practitioners, personal support workers, kitchen staff, housekeepers, and reception staff.