The workers who provide essential public services in Cornwall have ratified a new three-year collective agreement. Members of CUPE 3251 deliver social services for families in crisis, ensure clean drinking water, run recreation programs, and more. They have secured wage increases of 10.25% over three years, along with significant improvements to benefits, paramedical coverage, and shift premiums.
The agreement comes after months of difficult bargaining that unfolded in the shadow of the city’s October decision to lay off municipal workers. Throughout negotiations, CUPE 3251 focused on protecting the quality and sustainability of public services while addressing years of wage disparities that left Cornwall workers earning less than counterparts in neighbouring municipalities, contributing to ongoing recruitment and retention challenges.
“This agreement is an important step in correcting a pay disparity that has seen Cornwall workers fall behind for years,” said Melanie Cox, President of CUPE 3251. “Our members deliver the services that residents rely on every single day, and they deserve wages and benefits that reflect the value of their work. There’s still work to do to close the gap, but this agreement moves us in the right direction.”
Hundreds of Cornwall residents supported municipal workers throughout bargaining by sending letters to council, calling the mayor, and joining information pickets. Workers say that public support helped reinforce the importance of investing in the people who deliver Cornwall’s public services and enabled them to secure a good deal that prevented any labour disruption despite financial challenges in the city.
The union also recognized the city’s Chief Administrative Officer for recognizing the need to invest in municipal workers and helping move negotiations toward a fair settlement.
“We made good progress and laid the foundation for a more positive labour relationship, something that will benefit Cornwall residents as much as workers,” said Cox. “We’re incredibly grateful to all of our neighbours who stood with us throughout this process. Their support sent a clear message that Cornwall values the people who provide its public services. This agreement is an investment in the workers who keep our city running and will help ensure residents continue to receive the high-quality public services they depend on.”
