CUPE 5569 education workers are condemning the Sudbury Catholic District School Board (SCDSB) after the Board walked away from the bargaining table on Monday and refused to continue negotiations.
On Monday, the SCDSB’s negotiators informed the union that it would no longer review proposals or provide counteroffers. The Board then left the CUPE office, effectively ending discussions at the table. Only two standard language articles remained to be agreed upon.
“This decision is both disappointing and unnecessary,” said Corry Allair, president of CUPE 5569. “Our bargaining team came prepared, willing, and committed to reaching a fair first Collective Agreement. We were close to completion.”
CUPE 5569 represents Early Childhood Educators, Educational Assistants, office staff, social workers, and other education support professionals who work daily to ensure students feel safe and supported.
“Our members are the heart of our schools,” said Corry Allair, president of CUPE 5569. “Every day, education workers support students by providing learning support, stability, and trusted relationships, whether in the classroom, the office, or elsewhere in our schools. When those workers are disrespected or left in uncertainty, it directly affects the children and families who rely on us.”
Since October 2024, the elected bargaining committee has met with the employer 17 times in an effort to negotiate a first Collective Agreement. Despite this, bargaining has been extraordinarily slow. The employer has repeatedly sought extensions, declined to secure additional bargaining dates, and shifted negotiations to virtual meetings while refusing to meet in person.
“Walking away from the table sends the wrong message — not only to our members, but to parents and the broader community,” Allair said. “Our members show up every day to support students and families. They deserve a fair agreement that allows them to continue doing that work with confidence and security.”
CUPE 5569 remains ready and willing to bargain at any time.