Some of these workers have received very small increases. Some have not received anything. Yet the provinces increased operating grants were retroactive to July 1st of last year, CUPE staff representative Murray Craddock said. Our members who work as early childhood educators, are still waiting for the adequate salary levels that were supposed to result with the increased funding to child day care centres.
The government upped funding to Manitobas child day care system by almost 18 per cent in response to the Child Day Care Regulatory Review Committees recommendations concerning critical staffing issues. Craddock said early childhood educators were under the impression that the increase in operating grants to centres, would help address low wage and benefit disparities.
Our members spoke frankly with the Minister and gave him examples, Craddock said. He said he would look into the issues we raised and well be waiting to hear his response.
In Manitoba, CUPE represents 23,000 members who work in health care, education, municipalities, social services, childcare, utilities, libraries and emergency services.
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For more information, please contact:
Murray Craddock, CUPE staff representative
Phone: (204) 942-0343 ex. 209