OPSEU tells St. Joseph’s Healthcare to pay up
now at picket April 17-18 in London
OPSEU tells St. Joseph’s Healthcare to pay up now at picket
April 17-18 in London
Members of Local 152 at St. Joseph’s Healthcare in London
and St. Thomas are picketing April 17-18 in frustration at the three years
it has taken to get justice and fair pay for employees with a Masters of
Social Work (MSW).
In 2005, arbitrator Jane Devlin ruled that there should be
separate classifications and rates of pay for BSW and MSW social workers.
This is part of the paramed collective agreement at the facility. However,
the employer refuses to raise the pay of these 24 workers to the MSW level.
The local filed a grievance in Oct. 2005.
After more than three years of frustration on this issue,
the local is picketing to send the message: “OPSEU demands fairness: Pay Up
Now!”
Arbitration dates are set for April 17-18 and 29. Members
are picketing outside the hotel where the arbitrations are to be held to
voice their concern about the slow pace of activity.
“We have some very frustrated members,” said Local President
Kim McDowell. “The hospital wants to hire MSWs, but it wants to pay them at
BSW rates. This unacceptable situation has dragged on too long.”
Any OPSEU members who won’t be at Convention – or members of
other unions -are invited to join this event. Members will wear T-shirts
that read: “OPSEU demands fairness: Pay Up Now!”
When: April 17-18, 8:30- 10:30 a.m.
Where: Ramada Inn, 817 Exeter Rd., London
For information: Kim McDowell or Elizabeth Craik
at 519-765-866
