FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 23, 2001

Strikers ratify contract at Canadian Blood Services in Hamilton 

HAMILTON - Striking laboratory technologists at the Hamilton collection centre of Canadian Blood Services have ratified a new collective agreement. 

The 41 technologists, who began their strike Aug. 15, will return to work tomorrow, Aug. 24. 

The union made significant progress on the main issue of blood safety. A new Professional Practice Protocol will create a forum for front-line staff to raise concerns about work processes. A multi-step process will require issues that are not resolved locally to be reviewed by the Assistant Vice-President (Operations) of Canadian Blood Services in Ottawa. 

Attempts by CBS to wring concessions from the workers did not succeed. The union made no concessions in its fight for a better contract. 

“This strike was about respect for the workers and the work that they do,” said Gary Adams, negotiator for the Ontario Public Service Employees Union. “It was a success. The employer would not bargain our issues last week, but they did bargain them yesterday. Now our members can get back to doing what they do best - protecting the quality and safety of our blood supply.” 

The collective agreement runs until March 31, 2003. 

A rally to celebrate the end of the strike will go ahead today at 299 Main St., Hamilton, beginning at 12:00 noon. 

- 30 - 

For more information: Randy Robinson (416) 448-7441