WINDSOR – Mediation talks scheduled for tomorrow are the last chance to avoid a strike by 80 public health workers at the Windsor/Essex County Health Unit says
Local 543.3 of the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE).
“We’re seeking modest improvements to our collective agreement, including pregnancy and parental leave provisions that are important to our members,” says Ken McClelland, CUPE National Representative. “We want to extend benefits to our retirees so they can enjoy their retirement. These changes would only bring us in line with what other city workers have – it’s a question of parity.”
Health unit workers test the quality of our drinking water and inspect our restaurants to make sure our food is safe. They offer many public health services that protect our community from disease and other health risks, including dental programs.
“Our members care about the public and we’ll be doing everything we can at the table to avoid a strike,” says McClelland. “But these issues are important and our employer should understand that if push comes to shove, we are prepared for a strike.”
The members of the bargaining unit previously voted 98% in favour of strike action. If a deal is not reached on Friday, the local is prepared to strike.
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For further information, please contact:
Ken McClelland,
CUPE National Representative - Windsor Area Office
519-966-9595
Robert Lamoureux
CUPE Communications - Ontario Regional Office
416-292-3999