Striking skilled trades and professional staff at the University of Windsor, members of Local 1393 of the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE 1393), will be helping students beat this week’s heat wave tomorrow.
“Throughout the day, we’ll be providing students with frozen fruit treats to help them stay cool while the University’s air conditioning is offline,” said Dean Roy, President of CUPE 1393.
Local 1393 members went on strike Sunday after the University refused to back away from contract proposals that would, if accepted, undo decades of efforts to enshrine pay equity.
“Whether they understand it or not, the University’s proposals would damage the many years of efforts to ensure that women on campus receive equal pay for equal work,” said Roy.
On Sunday, the University’s central air conditioning unit malfunctioned due to a long-standing maintenance issue.
“Had the University addressed the issue weeks ago when it became apparent, students wouldn’t be sweltering right now. It’s not a lot, but our members wanted to provide students with an opportunity to cool off,” said Roy.
He added that Local 1393 members are planning to host a campus community barbecue September 19, to replace the one cancelled by University administration. Details of that event are still being finalized and will be made available when they are completed.
For more information, please contact:
Dean Roy, CUPE 1393 President 226-247-1063
Kevin Wilson, CUPE Communications 416-821-6641