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(Halifax) Employees of at least one CUPE nursing home in Nova Scotia have voted overwhelmingly in favour of strike action, after their employer demanded some 19 concessions in bargaining.

Members of CUPE Local 2774 at Oakwood Terrace in Dartmouth have voted 87% in favour of strike.

CUPE National Representative Barb Kowalski says, Even though the government has already signed off on a new, three-year deal that is supposed to form the basis of agreements at all CUPE nursing homes, management at Oakwood Terrace appears to be thumbing their noses at it.

They have tabled numerous concessions at the local table, items that would seriously impact on the workers. The union, meanwhile, only has one outstanding issue and that is vacations, says Kowalski.

It is unfortunate that the employer has taken such a harsh line. The nursing home workers at Oakwood Terrace have earned a very good reputation over the years and have contributed greatly to the home’s standing in the community, she says.

If Oakwood Terrace stays with this course of action, says Kowalski, they will most definitely be forcing us to withdraw our services. People dont join unions to move backwards, and CUPE does not negotiate concessions.

For information:
Barb Kowalski, CUPE National - 455-4180 (o)Rep.
Maureen Ethier, CUPE Local 2774 President - 465-7291 (h)
John McCracken, CUPE Communications Rep. - 455-4180 (o)