Union seeks alternative to Star layoffs

Unifor 87-M, representing Toronto Star employees, expressed shock and dismay over the company's decision Nov. 14  to outsource its advertising department and other employees.

About 80 unionized employees are slated to lose their jobs as a result of the announcement.

“We had no indication this was coming,” said Paul Morse, president of Unifor Local 87-M. â€œIt has hit our members very hard. Many were reduced to tears.”

Morse is hopeful the union can work with the company to find an alternative to the layoff. Under the company's collective agreement, the union has 90 days to develop an alternative plan, which must be considered by the employer.

"No stone will be left unturned in our efforts to save these jobs," Morse said.

Unifor Local 87-M, Southern Ontario Newsmedia Guild, represents 2,800 unionized media employees in Ontario, including employees at the Globe and Mail, Toronto Sun, London Free Press and Hamilton Spectator.

“We recognize that all newspapers are facing serious economic challenges, but it is beyond understanding to think that anyone else could do a better job in providing compelling media solutions to advertisers than the sales and support staff at the Star who have dedicated their careers to this newspaper,” said Elizabeth Marzari, Toronto Star union unit chair.