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WINDSOR, Ont. Interviewed by media on Monday, April 27, Windsor Mayor Eddie Francis was quoted saying that the City does not need the money it is saving while city workers are on strike.
James Wood, president of CUPE local 82, says he could not agree more. Mayor Francis says that money is not the issue. We agree. We know there is a recession and we know that it has hit Windsor hard. That’s why we have proposed creative solutions to contain the cost of retiree benefits. We have been forced to strike to defend the modest wages and benefits we have negotiated over many years. We are not seeking massive gains. We just want to protect our future and the future of new hires.
Jean Fox, president of CUPE local 543, underlined the fact that discussions need to take place at the bargaining table. We have already offered a number of options worthy of discussion to get back to the table but City Council simply turned down our offer, said Fox. Since money is not an issue, what is really preventing us from talking?
We want to return to work delivering the services our city needs, added Fox. We are reaching to the people of Windsor to help us break through the confusion and get back to the table. Let’s focus on getting a resolution and putting Windsor working again.
CUPE local 82, representing outside workers, have been on strike since Wednesday, April 15th. Their colleagues of local 543, the inside workers, joined the picket line on Saturday, April 18th.
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For further information, please contact:
James Wood, President, CUPE local 82: 519-818-0341
Jean Fox, President, CUPE local 543: 519-562-9045
Luc Tittley, CUPE Communications: 416-910-2389
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