NORTH BAY Members of Local 72 of the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE), representing 45 North Bay Hydro employees, voted 100% last night in favour of strike action if a settlement cannot be reached with their employer.
They want to take away benefits from our pensioners, says CUPE Local 72 president Ken Hull. While they talk about possibly selling our utility down the road, they arent prepared to negotiate severance packages.
Talks have been stalled since last Friday. The Local has applied to the ministry of Labour for conciliation talks, but none have been scheduled so far.
Were frustrated with the slow pace of negotiations, says Steve Boyle, CUPE National Representative. Were doing everything possible to achieve a settlement, but every time we make a move at the table, the employer doesnt respond in kind.
CUPE Local 72 has been building support in the community through coalition work and education and will continue fighting to keep North Bay Hydro public.
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For further information, please contact:
Ken Hull, President, CUPE Local 72
705-474-8112, ext. 257
Steve Boyle, CUPE National Rep
705-474-9765
Robert Lamoureux, CUPE Communications
416-292-3999