Members of CUPE Local 1645 are mobilizing public opposition to staff and service cuts at the Glenbow Museum in Calgary.
The union had proposed a number of alternative ways to address the museums current budget shortfall, including a call for increased government funding.
The staff believes that undermining the quality of museum services will only compound the financial difficulties of the museum for the long-term. They have urged the Board to build the museums future rather than compromise it, says CUPE researcher Bonnie Ferguson.
In its submission to the Glenbows board, the local argues, Our services create the respect and profile necessary to encourage and justify ongoing public and private support. Staff and service cuts will directly undermine our greatest assets.
A CUPE survey found that past staff cuts are already seriously jeopardizing the collections and museum services. The union recommended the Board delay its decision to cut staff until a thorough evaluation of the long-term impact could be undertaken.
CUPE Local 1645 represents curators, technicians, conservators, designers, librarians, archivists, communications, educators, visitor services and administrative support employees at the Glenbow.