Bell Canada finds itself under fire for its recent handling of layoffs, which saw over 400 employees terminated in virtual group meetings. The manner in which the telecommunications giant conducted these layoffs has sparked outrage, with Unifor, the union representing the affected workers, condemning the impersonal approach. Managers reportedly delivered layoff notices during video calls without providing any opportunity for questions or discussion.
Unifor’s Quebec director, Daniel Cloutier, expressed dismay, labeling the company’s actions as “beyond shameful,” particularly considering the years of service many employees had dedicated to Bell.
These layoffs are part of Bell’s larger workforce reduction plan, which aims to cut around 4,800 jobs, constituting 9% of its total workforce. This decision drew criticism, especially as it coincided with increased dividend payouts for shareholders.
Following objections from Unifor, Bell agreed to allow union representatives to be present during termination meetings, and employees would have the chance to unmute themselves to ask questions.
Unifor’s national president, Lana Payne, criticized Bell for its handling of the layoffs, accusing the company of arbitrarily selecting employees for termination without a clear plan.
This isn’t the first time Bell has conducted layoffs through virtual means. Similar instances occurred in 2021, when Bell Media employees were informed of their job losses via brief video calls.
In response to these actions, Unifor organized a rally in Ottawa to protest the layoffs and criticized Bell for postponing scheduled parliamentary hearings on the matter.
Furthermore, Unifor has launched the “Shame on Bell” petition, demanding that the company cease contracting and offshoring work, invest in local employment and support Canadian workers, preserve newsrooms, prioritize local journalism, and reduce dividend payouts to reinvest in employee well-being, job security, and infrastructure development.