NEW GLASGOW, NS – Members of CUPE Local 2330 employed by Summer Street Industries in New Glasgow will be holding a strike vote on Wednesday, June 1, 2011.
The workers have been attempting to reach a first collective agreement with their employer for the past 18 months. On May 20, 2011 an application was filed with the provincial Department of Labour asking for the assistance of a conciliator.
CUPE National Representative Wayne Thomas says, “There are over 50 items still on the table, including major concessions to group benefits, long-term disability, statutory holidays, vacation entitlement and sick leave.”
Says Thomas, “In addition to these major items, the employer is refusing to offer the provincial wage package that is available to other CUPE members and worksites within the Department of Community Services.”
Local 2330 President Nan McFadgen says, “The employer is refusing to bargain basic union rights like internal job postings and an unfettered grievance and arbitration procedure. We are looking to enshrine our current rights and benefits and bring workplace democracy to Summer Street Industries.”
The vote will take place at 4:30 pm at the CUPE office in New Glasgow.
For more information:
Wayne Thomas
CUPE National Representative
(902) 752-2244
Nan McFadgen
President, Local 2330
(902) 759-3231 (cell)
Derrick Barrett
CUPE Communications Representative
(902) 455-4180