DISTRICT OF HOPE—Municipal workers for the District of Hope sent a strong message that the current contract offer is unacceptable when they voted June 2 with 96.6% in favour of striking. The parties have agreed to mediation and the union filed a request with the Labour Relations Board yesterday.
CUPE 458 president Louise Piper explains, “We are seeking job security, a three year term, and general wage parity with all other municipal locals in the Lower Mainland and Fraser Valley. We’re just asking for fairness here.”
The inside and outside municipal workers have been working without a contract since December 31, 2007.
CUPE 458 represents the 30 workers who provide public services including maintenance of roads and parks, as well as support for planning, building, financial, and the RCMP for the District of Hope.
“These members have given their bargaining committee a strong mandate and we are carrying forward,” says Piper. “Residents in Hope should have the same quality of services as others in the Fraser Valley. Council’s offer jeopardizes that.”
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Contact: Louise Piper, CUPE 458 president, 604.792.4588
Janet Szliske, CUPE Communications, 604.454.7293