November 1, 2010

Geneva Centre members narrowly accept employer’s offer

 Workers at Geneva Centre for Autism in Toronto ratified a tentative contract on Oct. 29, thereby averting the employer’s threat to lock-out staff.

The three-year deal includes a wage increase of two per cent in the third year and some benefit improvements.

Although language in the agreement allows for temporary layoffs to be dispersed over the calendar year, the offending article that maintains temporary layoffs remains in place for now.   “This was a difficult decision for our members because we were not successful in removing the temporary lay off article in this round,” said Taryn Persaud, chair of the bargaining team. “That said, we have emerged from these tough negotiations as a stronger unit with new activists and are more committed than ever to fighting this appalling practice of temporary lay offs all the way to the Ontario Labour Relations Board.”

Local 548 represents more than 75 members at Geneva Centre. They expressed tremendous gratitude for the bargaining team and its effort.