Nine part-time library workers, members of the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) Local 1334-Unit 1 at the University of Guelph, have signed a tentative first collective agreement avoiding a possible labour disruption.
“We are very pleased that we have been able to settle our differences at the bargaining table,” said Janice Folk-Dawson, president of the local.
“The help and support we received from colleagues on campus and from the CUPE family across the country was what brought us this agreement,” commented Folk-Dawson.
Following the rally on April 26, a delegation marched to the mediation location. Fred Hahn, president of CUPE Ontario; Kevin Skerrett, CUPE Pension Specialist; and David Michor, coordinator of the Ontario University Workers Coordinating Committee (OUWCC), met with the employer’s mediator and the employer’s bargaining team.
“From then on, bargaining took on a new face and we believe we were able to negotiate a settlement that meets the needs of our members,” said Jill Smyth, CUPE National Representative.
“As Fred Hahn said at the rally, no member of CUPE stands alone – we are all always there for each other. This settlement is proof of that,” Folk-Dawson said. “I would also be remiss if I did not thank those who participated in our e-blast campaign.”
Details of the agreement will be released following ratification by the members of CUPE 1334-Unit 1 and the university.
For further information, please contact:
Janice Folk-Dawson, President, CUPE 1334 519-766-8376
Jill Smyth, CUPE National Representative 519-743-7781
Wendy Forbes, CUPE Communications 905-739-3999