CUPE has reached a tentative agreement with Brock University on behalf of a group of workers who were due to begin job action on Monday. If workers ratify the deal, it will mean that students and their families can enjoy a smooth arrival on campus when the academic year begins.
Negotiators for CUPE 1295, which represents approximately 150 custodians, tradespersons and grounds crew, reached the deal with the university after yesterday’s bargaining session ran into the evening.
“I am proud of the determination our members showed all throughout a tough round of negotiations,” said Ken McClelland, president of CUPE 1295. “Their solidarity was key to reaching a deal that values the contribution they make to life at Brock.”
Of primary importance to CUPE 1295 in its negotiations was a wage increase that adequately reflected the steep increase in the cost of living and the added value that facilities management staff bring to the services they provide every day.
Details of the deal will remain confidential until members of CUPE 1295 meet later next week to review the agreement and vote on its ratification. But McClelland did confirm that the bargaining committee will recommend the deal to CUPE 1295’s members.
McClelland also acknowledged “the unwavering support of our comrades, brothers and sisters in the other units and unions at Brock: CUPE 4207, Brock University Faculty Association, and the Ontario Secondary School Teachers Federation. Their backing was Important at every step of the way.”