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Unifor confirms it received complaint about Dias for alleged breach of union’s constitution

Unifor says it has received a written complaint about its now former national president, Jerry Dias.

News broke earlier today that Dias was retiring amid what was called ongoing health issues.

On Jan. 26, 2022, Unifor National Secretary-Treasurer Lana Payne received a written complaint that Dias engaged in an alleged breach of the Unifor constitution.

“Following review of the complaint, Payne promptly initiated an independent external investigation,” the union said. “On Jan. 29, 2022, Dias was notified of the investigation, which is ongoing.”

Dias went on a medical leave on Feb. 6, and subsequently notified the National Executive Board of his immediate retirement on March 11, citing health issues, the union said.

“In order to ensure the integrity of the ongoing investigation and to maintain confidentiality in accordance with the Unifor Constitution, specifics of the complaint will not be divulged at this time,” the union said in a press release. “Every Unifor member is held to the same standard and afforded the same rights under our Constitution.”

Unifor’s National Executive Board will meet on March 21, 2022 to discuss the matter.