Developmental Services rally brings results

September 30, 2011 More than 30 OPSEU Developmental Services workers and their supporters held a demonstration at the Ottawa campaign office of Madeleine Meilleur, Minister of Community and Social Services on Friday, September 23.

Developmental Services sector Divisional Executive (DIVEX) members marched into Meilleur’s office in an effort to speak with her about chronic underfunding and high job turnover in the sector. Saying Meilleur was out campaigning, the office staff maintained that the Minister could not be reached as she does not carry a cell phone.

“We call on Minister Meilleur to make funding Developmental Services a priority,” said DIVEX Chair, Sue Walker. “We have a crisis growing, with 46 OPSEU units across the province working without a contract.”

Chanting "deal today in Thunder Bay", rally participants voiced their support for the nearly 400 members who were at that time facing a 12:01 Sunday strike deadline.

This successful rally and ongoing member support were major contributing factors in the ability of OPSEU locals 740 and 738 to reach tentative agreements in Thunder Bay on the evening of Friday, September 23.

A special thanks to all who participated including the Developmental Services DIVEX, Region 4 Executive Board Members Chris Cormier and Dave Lundy, members, supporters and OPSEU staff.