FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE July 21, 2000

York Detention Centre to be privatized for profit

TORONTO - The Ontario Public Service Employees Union calls the privatization of the York Detention Centre a big mistake. The Ministry of Community and Social Services will hand over control of the Toronto youth facility to Cassatta Group Homes, a private for profit operator.

"None of the 100 OPSEU members currently employed at the centre chose to remain on the job for 30 per cent less money with the new employer," said OPSEU president Leah Casselman. "The level of service at this facility will be compromised in the name of profit. All of the expertise provided by our members will be gone. The employer will have to start from scratch with untrained staff."

The York Detention Centre at 354 George Street in downtown Toronto is a secure custody and detention facility for youth ages 12 to 15. The 36 - bed facility also serves as the intake centre for all of Toronto and employs 30 full time and 100 part time and unclassified staff.

"Cassatta was awarded the operator's contract after the government's first choice for the job bowed out of the bidding," said Bob Eaton, chair of the OPSEU ministry employee relations committee. "The government is morally bankrupt. This is a clear indication it will keep offering privatization deals until somebody accepts one. The public's rejection of privatization is being ignored completely."

Cassatta is expected to take control of York Detention Centre this fall.

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For further Information: Bill Trbovich 416-448-7400/793-0092

Bob Eaton 613- 498-7676