More than 15,000 residential construction workers are on strike over compensation and workers’ rights. It’s being called the biggest strike in the sector in 20 years, which could delay the construction of highrise and low-rise homes in the GTA.

On Sunday, workers in the Greater Toronto Area and other parts of Ontario covered by the Laborers’ International Union of North America (LiUNA) Local 183 went on strike. According to a press release from the local, workers in highrise forming, self-levelling flooring, house framing, tile installation, rail installation, and carpet and hardwood installation rejected their proposed settlements after asking for compensation increases to help offset the rising cost of living.

“LiUNA Local 183 members were deemed essential throughout the pandemic and continue to serve in one of the GTA’s fastest growing construction sectors,” said LiUNA 183 business manager Jack Oliveira in the press release. “Our members are at the frontlines of the region’s growth and deserve fair pay and benefits for their work and service to the community.”

This comes as Ontarians are grappling with continued high prices and tight supply in the residential real estate market, with the federal government promising billions to try to ease Canada’s housing crisis.

It’s the most significant strike the sector has seen in around two decades, said Richard Lyall, president of the Residential Construction Council of Ontario (RESCON), which represents residential builders.

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