CUPE 1196 and OSBCU condemn proposed staffing cuts by York Region District School Board

CUPE 1196 and the Ontario School Board Council of Unions, OSBCU, strongly condemn the York Region District School Board’s plan to cut approximately 6 percent of its caretakers and trades workers — 78 positions — by the end of this summer.

These cuts come as a direct result of severe underfunding by the provincial government.

“Our members are the backbone of safe and functioning schools,” said John Malcolm, President of CUPE 1196. “We are the first ones in the building and the last ones out. We perform safety checks, we flush water systems, we make sure our schools are safe and clean for students, YRDSB staff and families. While we may not always be seen, we play a crucial role in our school communities.”

CUPE 1196 represents caretakers and skilled trades workers, including plumbers, electricians, HVAC technicians, and maintenance staff, who ensure schools remain clean, operational, and safe.

“Right now, our members are already overworked and understaffed,” Malcolm said. “Cutting staff will reduce the cleanliness and safety of our buildings and create real risks. Without adequate caretaking and maintenance, it will be impossible to meet the demands of our schools, and that directly impacts students’ ability to learn in a safe and clean environment.”

Malcolm also highlighted the toll on workers. “Our members have families and responsibilities, and they’re wondering if they’ll have a job to come back to. And we’re already short-staffed and spread thin.”

OSBCU says these cuts are a direct result of the Ford government’s chronic underfunding of public education, amounting to more than $6 billion since 2018.

“This is what underfunding looks like,” said Joe Tigani, President of the OSBCU. “The Ford government continues to shortchange public education, forcing school boards into decisions that cut essential frontline staff. Schools are already understaffed, and these cuts will only make things worse for workers and students.”

CUPE 1196 and OSBCU are calling on the province to properly fund public education and on the York Region District School Board to reconsider these cuts.