Woodstock, Ont. – In a bid to win fair wages, Oxford County wastewater treatment workers voted 100 per cent in favour of a strike, if a fair agreement cannot be reached with the County. The 14 workers, members of the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE), Local 1146, are operators and maintenance staff of the County’s wastewater treatment plants.
“Our members are determined to win fair wages and respect,” said Linda Thurston Neeley, CUPE national representative. “Management should recognize the significance of a 100 per cent strike vote, and come to the table prepared to address our members’ issues.” The workers are seeking equal pay for work of equal value.
Conciliation talks are scheduled for Monday, February 27th. The workers’ last contract expired December 31, 2004.
“Workers who provide similar services should receive similar compensation,” said Thurston Neeley. “It’s time for the County to show respect for our members’ work and bridge the pay difference.”
-30-
For further information, please contact:
Linda Thurston Neeley
CUPE National Representative
519-743-7781
James Chai
CUPE Communications
416-292-3999