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TOWN OF SMITHERS Three days of contract talks between the Town of Smithers and its workers have been scheduled for November 15-17, 2004. Despite difficult negotiations to date, town workers are optimistic that a settlement can be reached in this round.

We are confident that we share a common goal with town administration, says CUPE national representative Bernie Schneider. That common goal is a contract that is fair and reflects settlements in the region.

The recent contract settlement in Houston saw reasonable wage and benefit increases in each year. The Town of Smithers contract, however, expired in December 2003 and talks reached a stalemate when the town tabled a wage freeze. The workers are represented by CUPE 1570.

We are looking for a fair wage increase that respects the cost of living and is on par with recent settlements, like Houston, says Schneider. CUPE 1570 members are seeking what is fair and adequate.

There is no reason why we cant have a quick settlement if these concerns are responsibly addressed in negotiations.

CUPE 1570 represents approximately 40 town workers who provide quality public services such as roads and park maintenance, city hall and RCMP clerical services, water and sewage treatment, by law enforcement, garbage pickup, recreation services and preschool instruction to the residents of the town of Smithers.

CUPE (Canadian Union of Public Employees) represents 25,000 municipal workers in British Columbia.

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Contact:
Bernie Schneider, CUPE national representative, c: (250) 565-8983;
Diane Kalen, CUPE Communications, (604)291-1940, ext. 240.