Workers with Ontario’s main liquor retailer are holding a rally in downtown Toronto Saturday afternoon on the second day of their historic strike.
Thousands of workers at the Liquor Control Board of Ontario began their first-ever strike on Friday morning, following months of unsuccessful contract negotiations between their union and management.
The Ontario Public Service Employees Union says workers are concerned with Premier Doug Ford’s accelerated plan to expand the alcohol market.
It says they fear job losses after Ford’s government announced plans to allow convenience stores and all grocery stores to sell beer, wine and ready-to-drink cocktails.
Stores are expected to stay closed for at least 14 days, though LCBO convenience outlets in smaller communities will remain open and online ordering is available with product limits in place.
Five LCBO stores will be opening up for restaurant and bar owners on an appointment-only basis starting next week.