Quebec union boss ‘Rambo’ Gauthier to appeal intimidation conviction

MONTREAL — A high-ranking Quebec union boss who was found guilty of intimidating a contractor is appealing his conviction.

Bernard (Rambo) Gauthier will file for appeal during his sentencing hearing on Feb. 3.

The Quebec Federation of Labour tells The Canadian Press it will seek an absolute discharge, which would allow Gauthier to keep his job as a union boss.

A Quebec court judge ruled last December that the heavy-machine operator intimidated construction entrepreneur Frederic Boucher during a work conflict in 2013.

The judge said Boucher had grounds to fear for his safety after Gauthier paid him a visit.

Gauthier had been previously described at Quebec’s corruption inquiry as a controlling figure in the construction industry who was not above advocating violence and intimidation to ensure local workers were hired.