“Our members, like all residents in this region, face affordability challenges. For many this has intensified with the recent increase to the cost of living,” says CUPE 389 President Yvette Mercier. “By negotiating directly with the city, we were able to find solutions to the challenges faced by both workers and the city. This collaborative and respectful approach to negotiations ensured we reached a new agreement in a timely manner and will certainly improve service delivery and benefit the community moving forward.”
The three-year deal provides wage increases of 3% in 2022, 4.5% in 2023 and 4% in 2024. It also includes a one-time, 4.5% inflationary support payment applied on 2022 wages.
Other key improvements include new funding for mental health services, access to domestic or sexual violence leave and the addition of a temporary part-time job classification.
“CUPE 389 members are proud to provide public services that enhance the quality of life for residents, promote economic growth for businesses, and create a welcoming environment for visitors. We look forward to continuing to work with the city to provide those services in our community” adds Mercier.