SQUAMISH—CUPE 2269 members voted last night to ratify the collective agreement reached with the District of Squamish on February 25. Mayor Greg Gardner and Squamish council ratified the tentative agreement on Tuesday, March 3. The new contract is in effect from January 1, 2008 to December 31, 2011.
“We’re glad to be done,” says Jodie Harrison, president of CUPE 2269 who provides payroll service for the district. “This has been a long road and we’re looking forward to moving ahead and continuing to provide great services to Squamish residents.”
The ratified contract includes raises over the four contract years (2.25 per cent, 3.5 per cent, 4 per cent, and 4 per cent) and improvements to benefits. Workers who possess water or wastewater provincially-recognized tickets will earn additional wages. Workers who provide services in waste management that is considered “dirty” work, will also be compensated with a pay premium. Language improvements include whistle-blower protection so that workers can speak freely when they see something wrong on the job.
“We’re pleased that members have ratified this agreement,” says Marie Worth, CUPE 2269 secretary-treasurer. “We’ve reached a fair settlement and it proves that collective bargaining is alive and well.”
CUPE 2269 represents 150 full-time, part-time and casual employees in Squamish who clear streets of snow to keep them safe; provide clean water and safe sanitary systems; animal and bylaw control; keep our recreation centres running and manage our parks; provide client services, guard cell blocks, and manage records/court services and exhibit control at the RCMP detachment; and provide finance, engineering, planning and administrative services at Squamish Municipal Hall.
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Contact: Janet Szliske, CUPE Communications, 604.454.7293