Fighting an inter-union raid

We do not believe inter-union raiding helps the labour movement. We believe that the problems which caused the raid in the first place can be usually solved within the current union structure, especially if the union is affiliated to the Canadian Labour Congress. In some cases, leaders of the disaffiliation forces have been promised full time jobs by the raiding union, calling into question their real motives.

In a number of instances, we have been asked by unions to help defend their organizations against raids. Over the years, we have assembled the elements of a quick-response team which can help a union in this situation.

In the worst cases, the raiding organization has persuaded one or more influential officers or staff members to support it. At times, these individuals remove union funds, property and files which the union needs to effectively represent its members.

The union response to a large-scale raid requires communications as an essential component, on a par with good legal representation. We have seen unions expose themselves and their members to millions of dollars in potential legal liabilities simply because they had not considered their strategy.

The first big mistake many unions make is to personally attack the leaders of the raid. This is not only counter-productive, it could expose the union to a lawsuit.

Responding to a union raid requires a very specialized approach. If you are facing such a situation, contact us for a complimentary and confidential consultation.