Union ‘outraged’ as Ontario Science Centre lays off science department

The union representing workers at the Ontario Science Centre says it’s “outraged” after learning of layoffs impacting the entire science department.

OPSEU/SEFPO said in a statement Thursday that the unionized workforce will shrink to 136 workers from 166. All live exhibit business development and security staff, along with workers in education, marketing and IT, were also let go.

Only one impacted staff member was offered another permanent position, the union said. An internal memo sent to staff and obtained by Global News said that some reporting relationships will change and that several units will be redesigned.

“How can you have an Ontario Science Centre with no Science Unit?” said Raluca Ellis, president of OPSEU/SEFPO Local 549, in a statement.

“With these job cuts, over 540 years of combined service would be eliminated.”

When the Ford government shuttered the Ontario Science Centre two years ago, it said there wouldn’t be any layoffs.

But four days after the facility on Don Mills Road closed its doors, 50 food service workers were let go. Since then, more than 100 employees have lost their jobs.

A spokesperson for the Ontario Science Centre said that while the organization is restructuring, its mission has not changed. They added new roles will be created.

Ontario Science Centre staff have continued to deliver programming through smaller pop-up spaces at locations including Sherway Gardens, the Harbourfront Centre and the CNE. Staff also go directly into schools, the union said.

Construction on a new permanent location for the Ontario Science Centre began in May on the grounds of the former Ontario Place. The government has committed to keep the Harbourfront Centre site open until the expected completion in 2029, the union added.