CNE assures public safety while inspectors on strike cite concerns

Safety inspectors are on strike as the CNE is set to return on Friday after a two-year hiatus, and the union says it's worried about public safety during the 18-day fair.

Members of the Ontario Public Services Employees Union (OPSEU) picketed outside the CNE grounds on Sunday, asking that the Technical Standards and Safety Authority return to contract negotiations. They're also worried that rides and equipment may not be properly inspected as a result of the strike.

In total, 170 safety inspectors employed by TSSA walked off the job on July 21, they've been negotiation since November 2021, a bargaining committee member said.

Cory Knipe told CBC News that the union demands included addresing wage inequality, substandard pay, and micromanagement. Knipe says the lack of extra oversight from safety inspectors during the strike means there might be a risk on the safety level of some equipment.

"All I can say is that we really do hope that nothing goes wrong," he said.

Knipe says the union contacted the TSSA "multiple times" and that "they just do not want to come back to the table."

TSSA has responded to safety concerns by saying it's brought managers and consultants to facilitate safety inspections and there is no public safety risk as a result of its rigorous inspection process. The CNE Association agrees.

"There are no safety concerns as far as we're concerned," said Darrell Brown, CEO of the CNE Association.

"We have a significant safety protocol, it's been in place for years," he said. "We have our own team to make sure things are up to scratch always."

Brown assured that food trucks, propane tanks, and other equipment will be properly installed, with permits checked and certified. TSSA personnel is also expected to review and ensure equipment throughout the 18-day period.

"We've love to see the safety inspectors back, but that hasn't affected what we do," he said.

Stephanie Coyne, one of the safety inspectors on strike, said the workers just want a fair deal. She's been working at TSSA for 18 years.

"It doesn't look good and it's only getting worse," she said.

Wage compensation, vacation time, and a better work-life balance were some of her requests. She also doesn't think the TSSA's safety plans for the CNE's return are sufficient.