Warning message

Please note that this page is from our archives. There may be more up-to-date content about this topic on our website. Use our search engine to find out.

Latest action by CUPE 410 in bid for fair contract aimed at cutting off library revenue

VICTORIA— As part of CUPE 410’s escalating job action and withdrawal of services, the union’s members are being instructed not to accept any payments from customers for overdue fines, effective today and until further notice.

The purpose of this action is to cut off revenue from the library, says CUPE 410 president Ed Seedhouse.

We have no objection to management collecting the fines, but we will not assist them in doing so,” said Seedhouse.

If they wish to use a member’s workstation to enter the fines, we’re advising members to allow them to do so and wait quietly until they are done.  If they ask for advice on how to do that, members will politely refuse and, if there’s a protest, the manager is to be referred to me.”
 
Seedhouse emphasized that the action does not mean the library has become “fine free”. Fines on overdue items will still be added to patron’s accounts when the items are returned. Furthermore, if a patron’s account is over the $10.00 limit, Circulation clerks are to over-ride and allow the patron to check out the books.

At this time, we will continue to accept payment for everything but overdue fines,” he said.

Seedhouse said that patrons who want to pay their fines may be referred to the administration office at Central branch, but CUPE 410 members there are also not to collect fines, but rather ask a manager to deal with the patron.

As I’ve said many times, we are ready to return to the bargaining table any time,” said Seedhouse, adding that further actions will be announced as they are confirmed.