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TORONTO, ON – Fred Hahn, President of the 230,000 – member Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) Ontario, has committed the full support and resources of the union to CUPE Local 416 in its effort to continue providing services to Torontonians while staying at the bargaining table, despite blatant attempts by the Mayor’s team to provoke a work stoppage.
“The only ones trying to get a deal at City Hall are Mark Ferguson and CUPE 416.
Mark should be commended for his mature and responsible approach to a very tough round of bargaining,” said Hahn. “Deputy Mayor Doug Holyday is clearly trying to prevent a deal and play games in the media. These bullying tactics are outrageous. He is doing exactly what Torontonians don’t want. He is trying to provoke a work stoppage.”
Hahn noted that CUPE Local 416 has already accepted many of the City’s bargaining proposals, has offered a three-year wage freeze and, is now offering changes to employment security provisions – all in an effort to protect services for Torontonians.
Late last night, the City tabled a “take it or leave it” final offer that it knew would not be accepted. It came with an ultimatum that the City would arbitrarily change the terms of employment. This is literally unheard of Canadian Labour Relations and is clearly a move intended to provoke a service disruption.
At a press conference earlier today, Ferguson made clear that the union will continue to keep trying to negotiate a settlement, despite these threats. Throughout negotiations the local has not held a strike vote. “We will not be provoked,” Ferguson said, and Hahn applauded his dedication to the people of Toronto.
“Torontonians saw the truth of the City’s agenda during the budget process,” Hahn said. “The only ones who want to disrupt services to taxpayers are Doug Holyday and Mayor Ford, who should stop trying to bully workers, and playing politics and start putting their energies into negotiating a fair settlement that protects services,” Hahn said.
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For more information, please contact:
Craig Saunders, CUPE Communications, 416-576-7316
