They offer services ranging from recruiting replacement workers to high tech surveillance of strikers and their families. The standard MO is a military-style encampment with balaclavas, jackboots and bulletproof vests. The companies say the security forces are needed to maintain picket line peace. Labour advocates accuse them of bringing unnecessary muscle and intimidation. This muscle has been used against striking mill workers, nurses and even day care workers.
Companies say hired security forces protect their interests during strikes.
Jerome Stricklen was one of 1200 workers on strike at Falconbridge's nickel operations in Sudbury. Right in front of him, coming from the opposite direction, was a vehicle belonging to Accu-fax, the private security firm hired by Falconbridge. The vehicle cut him off, causing him to slam on his breaks. Another Accu-fax vehicle pulled up alongside him. Within seconds a police cruiser pulled up.