NORTH BAY, Ont. – Aramark food service staff working at Canadore College/Nipissing University, Commerce Court and in eight secondary schools throughout the Near North District School Board, have voted 100 per cent in favour of a strike if Aramark fails to make a fair contract offer. The strike vote was held by the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE), the union representing the 60 area Aramark workers.
“Our members deserve to earn a fair wage for the services they provide to our community, for residents, students and customers in many facilities and institutions in the region,” said CUPE national representative Monique Drapeau. “Workers have a hard time making ends meet with near minimum wages, it’s time for a living wage that let’s our members provide for their families.”
The workers’ last contract expired on December 31, 2006. They currently earn between 9 dollars and 10.90 an hour.
“We are hoping to reach a negotiated settlement with the help of a provincial conciliation officer, but a lot depends on the company’s attitude at the bargaining table,” said Drapeau. “Our members are proud of the services they offer to Aramark’s clients, but management negotiators need to understand that a reasonable wage increase is required here to prevent a strike – it’s basic economics and cost of living.” Conciliation talks are scheduled for August 16.
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For further information, please contact:
Monique Drapeau, CUPE National Representative: 705-474-9765
Robert Lamoureux, CUPE Communications: 416-292-3999