Members of CUPE 5820 who work for the County of Simcoe could be on strike by next week, leading to an interruption of certain county services if the employer fails to negotiate a fair deal.
“This is about fairness for our members,” said Wendy Monsinger, president of CUPE 5820. “We work hard and provide important services to county residents, and we’re asking for a fair deal that recognizes that work.”
CUPE 5820 members work for the County of Simcoe as office, technical and clerical workers, as well as social and children’s services workers. Despite their hard work and dedication to the county, their wages are well below those in neighbouring communities who do the same work. As a result, many workers have chosen to leave the county for employment elsewhere.
“Our members are paid less to do the same work as those in the community next door, and that’s just not fair,” said Monsinger. “We hope that when we return to the bargaining table this week, the employer will be ready to negotiate a deal that is in line with those who do the same work in neighbouring communities. Otherwise, our members are prepared to strike.”
Simcoe County residents can help CUPE 5820 members avoid a strike by going to www.cupe.ca/Simcoe and sending a letter to council telling them to negotiate a fair deal.