Striking Bank of Canada guards fined after noise complaints to Ottawa mayor's office

Striking Bank of Canada security guards have been handed three tickets for noise violations after an unnamed MP complained to Mayor Mark Sutcliffe's office about music on the picket line, according to the Public Service Alliance of Canada.

The tickets were issued by Ottawa bylaw officers, who put the fine at about $500 each. Jake Gravelle, head of bylaw, said voluntary compliance was sought first and charges followed when it was not achieved. The city said it respects the right to lawful labour action and that regulations are applied fairly and consistently.

Alex Silas, PSAC's national vice-president and a striking guard, said the music has played at the same volume for four months and that the guards have mostly received compliments on it. He said music and megaphones are fairly standard on picket lines. Mathieu Gravel, chief of staff to Mayor Sutcliffe, said the office referred the complaint to Bylaw in the same way as any other bylaw complaint, and that the office plays no role in how bylaws are enforced.

The strike, at the corner of Sparks and Kent streets, has run for more than 120 days. The Bank of Canada says it respects the guards' right to strike and continues to negotiate in good faith. The two sides are deadlocked on several issues, including whether overtime hours should be reduced. The bank declined to comment on the noise complaints and tickets.