Staff at the District of Parry Sound Social Services Administration Board went on strike this morning.

The 100 members of OPSEU Local 324, including social services, child care, and clerical staff, want a contract that compares with those of staff in nearby municipalities. The union represents both full-time and part-time staff.

Strike issues include the length of the contract, the wage offer, and benefits. Union members are looking for a benefit package to match that of non-unionized administrative staff.

“Management’s offer was insufficient and divisive. Our members have to pay 50 per cent of their benefits, while the employer pays 100 per cent of benefits for non-unionized staff,” said OPSEU staff representative Terry Krulicki.

The local is asking for a three per cent wage increase in each of three years. The members have turned down three employer offers of a five-year contract. “Our members are looking for an offer that compares with what they see in nearby jurisdictions,” Krulicki said.