(Amherst) - Employees at Autumn House womens shelter say they were shocked to learn that their Board of Directors have refused to pass on salary increases of 9.3% that have been approved by the provincial government.
The employees of Cumberland County Transition House say a letter received by their employer late last week from the Department of Community Services spells out the wage increases and states clearly that the funding has been approved.
CUPE National Representative Peter Baxter, whose union represents the employees, says the provincial government even outlined the break down of economic increases. They are providing for:
- 2% in 2000-2001,
- 2% in 2001-2002,
- 2% in 2002-2003,
- 3% in 2003-2004
The increases are to be provided effective April 1, 2003.
Says Baxter, With a possible strike looming at the womens shelter, these wage increases could mean the difference between a work stoppage or not.
We can only conclude that the Autumn House Board of directors, in choosing to ignore a directive from their funder the provincial government is looking to provoke a strike, says Baxter.
For information:
Peter Baxter, CUPE National Rep.
(902) 752-2245 (o)
Terry Cove, President CUPE Local 4326
(902) 667-7314
John McCracken, CUPE Communications Rep.
(902) 455-4180 (o)