Committee members reported that reductions to staff and hours of work have created unacceptable conditions in some schools. Workloads for teachers aides have increased and preventative maintenance will not be done at some schools this year due to a layoff of maintenance and cleaning staff during school breaks. Members said this could lead to serious problems down the road such as mould and leaky roofs.
The committee plans to air its concerns at a press conference at Province House planned for later this month in conjunction with other school board unions.
The committee also elected a new executive. Judy Allison (Local 3876) takes over the reins as Chairperson with Pat Leblanc (Local 955) as the new Vice Chairperson. Cecilia Poirier (Local 955) continues as treasurer and Sadie Fee (Local 955) will remain as secretary for another term.
CUPE represents 3000 school board employees in the province.
For more information, please contact: Terry Goulding (CUPE) (902) 752-2244