Bargaining between CUPE 5435, representing frontline workers at CBI Health in Saskatoon, and the employer has reached an impasse. The union has formally filed for impasse under The Saskatchewan Employment Act.
CUPE 5435 members provide vital, hands-on support to children, youth, and adults living in group homes – services that families and communities depend on every day. Yet wages at CBI Health continue to fall significantly behind those paid by other organizations performing similar work.
“Our members are already well behind the sector average, making less than $20 per hour at the top wage, and instead of addressing that gap, the employer is proposing changes that push workers even further behind,” said Kent Peterson, president of CUPE Saskatchewan. “These workers deserve wages that reflect both their skill and the value of the care they provide.”
Peterson noted that CUPE 5435’s proposal aims to move members closer to fairness after years of wages that have not kept pace with rising costs of living.
“We are asking for reasonable and necessary wage improvements, so workers aren’t falling further behind every year. Competitive wages are critical for recruiting and retaining staff and maintaining high quality care.”
Mediation dates are scheduled for March 4 and 5.