TORONTO, March 13, 2013 /CNW/ – After joining the striking employees of Porter Airlines on the picket line on March 11, 2013, delegates from the Ontario English Catholic Teachers’ Association (OECTA) Annual General Meeting (AGM) brought the young workers back to the meeting, where they received a standing ovation and a cheque for more than $30,000, as a contribution to their strike fund.

Teacher delegates attending OECTA’s AGM joined in the peaceful protest at Billy Bishop Airport in support of the employees who fuel Porter Airlines aircraft at the Toronto Island Airport. The workers, who are members of the Canadian Office and Professional Employees Union (COPE) Local 343, have been on strike since January 10, 2013.

“The right to demonstrate in large peaceful groups to voice discontent and opposing views is democracy in action,” said Kevin O’Dwyer, President of OECTA.

“Our 640 AGM delegates were inspired by the courage of those 22 young workers striking for fair salaries and safe working conditions,” O’Dwyer added. “It was a teachable moment and those young workers were the teachers that day.”

For more information about their strike action, and to donate, visit www.dontflyporter.com

OECTA represents the 45,000 professional women and men who teach all grades in publicly funded English Catholic schools in Ontario.

SOURCE: Ontario English Catholic Teachers’ Association

For further information:Diana Thomson, Associate Editor 416-925-2493 ext 507, d.thomson@oecta.on.ca