The Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) Local 966 Rally For A Fair Deal was a rousing success.
“It was very gratifying to see so many of our labour brothers and sisters come out to support us in our fight for equality and fairness at the negotiating table,” said Mary Jo Falle, president of CUPE Local 966.
Members CUPE Local 966, Ontario Works Human Services Unit, provide valued and vital services to the marginalized residents in the Region of Peel. Among these services are newcomer settlement services, employment and training, assistance for the homeless, and child and family support.
Guests at the rally included: Fred Hahn, president of CUPE Ontario; Sid Ryan, president of the Ontario Federation of Labour; Marie Clarke Walker, executive vice-president of the Canadian Labour Congress; Edna Toth, Mississauga Citizen of the Year and Chair of the Peel Poverty Action Group; and Dave Wakely, president of the OPSEU Peel Paramedics local.
“People work in social services because they are deeply committed to helping people. The employer should share that commitment and not have forced this disruption in services,” Hahn told the rally.
“You are not alone. What’s good for some workers in the Region is good for all workers in Peel.Along with 230,000 workers in the broader public sector across Ontario, we stand with you today and for as long as it takes to get a fair settlement for you and for those you support throughout Peel.”
“Our Pink CUPE Bus is a well known sight around Ontario and in labour circles because we’ve made a huge effort to support other CUPE locals, other unions and the community,” Falle said.
“Today, I feel like we’ve received our support back twofold. Our members at Ontario Works Human Services really appreciate the support and words of solidarity from our guests,” Falle concluded.
For further information, please contact:
Mary Jo Falle, President, CUPE Local 966 (289) 233-3714
Michel Revelin, Vice-President, CUPE Local 966 (416) 822-3779
Helen Manning, CUPE National Representative (416) 220-9794
Wendy Forbes, CUPE Communications (416) 892-8716