Peterborough, ON – The Union representing staff at Atira Retirement Canada’s Sherbrooke Heights, is preparing for a possible strike after a no-board report was issued by the labour board over the weekend. The 35 staff at the independent living facility in Peterborough, voted unanimously in favour of strike action after the employer failed to provide a wage offer that meets the pattern in the long-term care and retirement sector in Ontario.
“Our members are working two or three jobs, just to survive,” said Heather Blackburn, president of CUPE local 5129. “Our employer is making millions while paying us just barely above minimum wage. We love to support our residents, but we need to be able to support our families, too.”
“Instead of negotiating with us after the strike vote, Atira sent our members threatening letters to our homes,” added Blackburn. “It’s shameful. We hope they will do better moving forward so we can focus on providing the best service to the residents instead of worrying about threats and intimidation.”
With the no-board report issued, the countdown is now on for a possible strike on December 15th. The Union is hopeful the employer will return to the table to negotiate a fair deal.
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For more information, contact:
Bill Chalupiak
CUPE Communications Representative
416-707-1401
:pp/cope491
