RWDSU Speaks Out on Quality of Life in Sudbury (6/12/07)

The RWDSU is again taking part in the effort to protect quality of life in Sudbury, Ontario, by working to keep retail store hour regulations in place in the city.

At issue is a debate in the city council that would allow stores to open 24 hours, and also on the traditionally paid day off for Boxing Day and Civic Holiday.
According to RWDSU Northern Joint Council President Derik McArthur, deregulation could cost hurt workers and their communities.
"Regulated hours give workers time with their families, and also time to volunteer at hospitals and give back to the community," McArthur says. "If stores are open 24 hours a day, you've lost your core base for that kind of thing, and you are also stressing out part-time workers who are students and parents. It would also open the door for big box stores to come into Sudbury, which hurts the community and workers."
Once per term, the city council brings up the issue of shopping hours and holiday shopping. The RWDSU Northern Joint Council has been involved in the city council hearings and community efforts to keep the laws in place.

More on this issue from Today's Sudbury Star