Two Nooses Found on EllisDon Jobsite at Michael Garron Hospital

Premier Doug Ford has expressed outrage regarding the incident at a media availability. When asked about the nooses, the Premier called the act “absolutely disgusting.” And that “when they catch this person, and the police are going to catch him, you will find out it is maybe one or two bad actors, they will face the consequences.”

In response, OGCA member EllisDon released the following statement:

“Let’s be clear, this is the handiwork of one or two racist criminals, every other worker and leader is appalled at their hatred and cowardice. These individuals are unfortunately comfortable in the knowledge that on a heavily populated and constantly changing construction site, they will be hard to identify. But I want to send a clear message: We will not stop until you are found, charged and permanently evicted from our industry.

EllisDon is working closely with the Toronto Police Service, and will be using every available tool, including upgrading the security and surveillance on our sites, both to catch these criminals and to ensure that every worker is safe from discrimination, hate and bigotry. We are also reaching out directly to the local community to ensure their concerns are being addressed and to embrace their cooperation.

EllisDon acknowledges that systemic racism in the construction industry is real and – with our partner unions and subcontractors – we have initiated both long and short term measures to root it out wherever it lies, and eliminate it. This will take time and sustained effort by many people, but we have already begun, and we will succeed.”

As an industry, we must stand together against racism, bigotry and hate. As employers, we have to make workplaces safe for all employees, including being free of discrimination and harassment. As an association, we are monitoring this situation and working with all members to address issues related to systemic racism in our industry.