COBOURG/BELLEVILLE, ON – This afternoon, workers from Highland Shores Children’s Aid Society (CAS) will take to the streets of Cobourg and Belleville, calling on the Board of Directors for the region’s child protection agency to protect services for children and families at risk by negotiating a fair first collective agreement with its workers.
The rally will take place during the meeting of the Board of Directors for Highland Shores CAS at the agency’s office in Cobourg, with some board members taking part from the head office in Belleville.
Highland Shores CAS was created in 2012-2013 as a result of the merger of agencies in Northumberland, Hastings and Prince Edward counties. Workers have been negotiating ever since to agree on a single, first contract with their new employer.
After more than two years, employees represented by the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) are still working for unequal rates of pay and under different terms and conditions. The situation has had poor effect on employee morale and workers are concerned that services for children and families will suffer as a result.
“We are seeking a contract that protects services and ensures that workers have the resources to keep children safe in our communities,” said Mark Zwart, President of CUPE Local 2197.
“We urge the Board of Directors and the Executive Director of Highland Shores CAS to come to the table to achieve a fair deal.
Who? Child protection workers and support staff of Highland Shores Children’s Aid Society
What? Rally and information picket
When? Wednesday, March 25, 5:15 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Where? Highland Shores CAS Head Office at 363 Dundas Street West in Belleville and Highland Shores CAS at 1005 Burnham Street in Cobourg
For more information, contact:
Mark Zwart
President, CUPE 2197
613-242-9189
Donna Carlaw
CUPE National Representative
613-453-2597
Mary Unan
CUPE Communications
647-390-9839