EXCLUSIVE: This migrant worker spoke up about a massive COVID-19 outbreak that killed his bunk mate. Then he was fired and told he would be deported to Mexico, according to legal docs.
thestar.com/business/2020/…
thestar.com/business/2020/…
Gabriel Flores Flores spoke to the @TorontoStar in June for an investigation into his employer, Scotlynn Growers, that showed a long history of complaints at the farm.
Later in June, a new complaint to the labour board says he was accused of speaking to the press and terminated.
Later in June, a new complaint to the labour board says he was accused of speaking to the press and terminated.
The original investigation is here. At the time, Scotlynn President Scott Biddle told me in an interview (that took place after the alleged firing) that a worker would never be sent home for "voicing their opinion". #onlab #canpoli
thestar.com/business/2020/…
thestar.com/business/2020/…
But data shows that thousands of migrant workers in Canada have been sent home mid-contract, often against their will.
Today Flores is presenting a letter to federal immigration min @marcomendicino asking him to grant migrant workers permanent status
Today Flores is presenting a letter to federal immigration min @marcomendicino asking him to grant migrant workers permanent status
Experts say permanent status is the only way for "workers to be able to stand up for their rights, protect their health and safety, and protect themselves from exploitation.”
Otherwise, they can just be sent home if they speak up.
Otherwise, they can just be sent home if they speak up.
Flores got off the farm with the assistance of @MWAC, according to his new reprisal complaint, and is receiving legal support from @ParkdaleLegal.
He told me his claim is for other workers in the same boat.
“It’s a system of work where we can’t speak out.”
He told me his claim is for other workers in the same boat.
“It’s a system of work where we can’t speak out.”
