TORONTO – Child care workers at Ideal Child Service Group (ICSG) represented by CUPE Local 2484 are preparing to be on strike as of Monday, October 5 if the employer does not return to the bargaining table to negotiate a fair collective agreement.
The workers provide essential care and education to children at five ICSG locations across Toronto. They are fighting for fair wages, better working conditions and the resources they need to deliver quality child care.
“Our members would much rather be at work supporting the children and families that rely on the care they provide at ICSG instead of being on a picket line, but they simply cannot accept working conditions that fail to recognize the important work they do every day,” said Jess Tomas, President of CUPE Local 2484. “We are ready to keep negotiating, but the employer needs to come back to the table and work toward a fair agreement before Monday so children and families will not face interruption.”
The union has raised concerns about wages that do not reflect the high cost of living in Toronto, protections for workers who become sick or injured, and current staffing practices that can affect consistency and continuity for children.
“Parents deserve the best for their kids, not just the bare minimum,” said Tomas. “Quality child care depends on experienced educators who can afford to stay in their jobs and have the time and support to do their work well. Fair working conditions and fair wages are an investment in children, families and our community.”
CUPE 2484 is urging ICSG management and its Board of Directors to return to negotiations, provide the financial information needed for fair bargaining, and work with the union to reach an agreement that avoids a strike.
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For more information, contact:
Eric Bell
CUPE Communications
[email protected]
(306) 580-0893
