As Ontario residents and workers prepare for the full impact of the recently announced austerity budget, more public sector workers are voting to join CUPE to improve working conditions and advance their rights in their workplaces.
In the City of Hawkesbury, 26 aquatics workers voted overwhelmingly to join CUPE in an effort to be treated fairly and earn wages comparable to what other lifeguards earn in nearby municipalities. The new members will be part of CUPE 1026.
Meanwhile, in North Bay, 13 casual and relief workers at the Nipissing Transition House also voted to join CUPE so they can be treated the same way as their full-time and permanent colleagues who are members of CUPE 4720.
“We are delighted to welcome our new members in North Bay and Hawkesbury,” said Colette Proctor, CUPE organizing representative. “As the full effects of the Ontario austerity budget are felt across the province, we expect more workers will be interested in joining CUPE, so they have Canada’s largest union on their side, working to protect and advance their cause.”
CUPE is Canada’s largest union, representing over 615,000 members in different sectors, including social services, universities, schools, hospitals, municipalities, transportation and other sectors.