CUPE 5088: bargaining for a first, fair contract

The local represents 76 workers who support adults with developmental disabilities and their families.

Ever since they joined CUPE in June 2011, workers at CLUOV have been bargaining for a first, fair contract; they entered mediation in spring 2012.

Members’ concerns continue to be:

• the need for adequate provincial funding to ensure sufficient staffing;
• employer demands for a five-year wage freeze, wage increases far below the standard in the sector, and cuts to sick leave benefits;
• a collective agreement and working conditions that ensure the agency’s ability to recruit and retain qualified staff.

In August 2013, with no contract in sight, CUPE 5088 held a strike vote, with 96 per cent of members voting in favour. The next mediation session is scheduled for October 16 and the union will be in a legal strike position the next day.

In an effort to avoid a strike and ensure no disruption of services to supported individuals, members of CUPE 5088 are:

• organizing information pickets;
• airing ads on local radio;
• enlisting the support of the community;
• targeting selected MPPs to brief them about the issue.

Please check back for details about how you can support these brothers and sisters.