Family members of adults with autism and other developmental disabilities under the care of a charity in the Greater Toronto Area are urging the province to step in following the involuntary relocation of their loved ones due to a labor dispute.
Since 2012, Jay Gualitieri, 35, who is the nephew of Christine Burnett, has resided in a group home operated by Central West Specialized Developmental Services (CWSDS), a provincially funded organization in Oakville.
However, at the end of September, Jay and other residents of CWSDS group homes in Mississauga, Milton, Georgetown, and Burlington were transferred to the charity’s headquarters at 53 Bond St. in Oakville without their families’ consent, as reported by the union representing the support workers involved in the dispute.
Family members expressed their distress over the lack of choice in the relocation process, questioning the absence of consent and highlighting the disruption to the residents’ safety, security, and daily routines.
In an effort to have their loved ones return to their original group homes with familiar surroundings and dedicated staff, concerned family members have penned an open letter to Premier Doug Ford. However, the premier’s office declined to comment on the situation.
Approximately 30 to 40 residents were affected by the relocation, which CWSDS attributed to preparing for a potential lockout or strike amid the ongoing dispute with support workers.
The union disclosed that CWSDS management sought a “no board” report from the Ministry of Labour, triggering a countdown to a possible lockout. Despite the legal ability to lock out workers since October 9, no strike vote has been taken by the workers, rendering a strike legally impossible.
Moreover, the charity did not respond to requests for comment, although CWSDS CEO, Patricia Kyle, assured efforts to minimize disruptions to the residents and hoped for a resolution between CWSDS and the union to maintain the quality of care provided.
Family members expressed concern over their loved ones being caught in the middle of a labor dispute and feeling like bargaining chips, emphasizing the impact on the residents’ rights and well-being.
The potential negative consequences of disrupting the residents’ routines were highlighted, including health issues, anxiety, and behavioral challenges. Concerns were also raised about the reliance on temporary agency staff in the event of a lockout or strike, which could further alienate the residents.
Addressing the situation, the Ministry of Children, Community, and Social Services emphasized that collective bargaining is a matter between employers and unions, urging agencies to develop contingency plans to ensure the safety and well-being of staff and service recipients during disruptions.
The families’ profound concerns over the involuntary relocation and its repercussions underscore the need for a swift resolution to the labor dispute to safeguard the welfare and stability of the residents.