Sault Ste. Marie, Ont. - Staff at Community Living Algoma have voted by 91% to ratify a new two year collective agreement which they say ensures long term viability and stability for a vital community service.
“In a sector where continuity of staff is essential to quality of care provided, making pensions available to even the lowest paid earners is a breakthrough in sound planning and commitment to the quality of service the community expects.” Said CUPE national representative Laura Delhenty. “CLA’s support for this pension plan proves that it makes sense for employers and employees alike.”
“The key to a strong 91% ratification”, said Delhenty, “was agreement by the parties to provide pension coverage for all front line staff, full time, part time and relief or casual employees.”
Under the terms of the Multi Sector Pension Plan (MSPP), CUPE Local 1880 members at Community Living Algoma will each contribute 5% of hourly earnings toward the pension coverage. Employee contributions will be matched dollar-for- dollar by the employer, Community Living Algoma.
The CLA Board ratified the agreement for the employer on September 1, 2009.
CUPE’s Social Service Sector coordinator, Kathy Johnson says “this agreement demonstrates a cooperative approach to providing services in the 21st century, shows real respect for all staff and a commitment to ensure quality service for the people we support.”
“This agreement is a model for all Community Living agencies in Ontario and points the way to stability in a crucial but also vulnerable sector.” Johnson said.
The newly ratified contract covers 257 workers in Blind River, Sault Ste. Marie and surrounding area and also provides improvements in compensation and contract language and runs until March 31, 2011.
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Contact:
Laura Delhenty 705-987-3203
Kathy Johnson 416-272-6698
Chris Watson 416-553-9410