FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 7, 2004
Strike possible in mental health services
TORONTO – The staff of Mental Health Services of Hastings and Prince Edward County could be on strike at 12.01 a.m. Tuesday, May 11, if bargaining scheduled for Monday fails to produce a settlement.
The 35 members of Ontario Public Service Employees Union Local 455 work out of seven offices providing a wide range of client-centred services and supports for people aged 16 and older with severe mental illnesses.
This is a first contract for the group following a merger of Belleville’s Community Mental Health Program with the North Hastings Counselling Centre and Quinte and Region Community Homes.
They have been in negotiations since last November, but talks broke down April 13. On April 20, the members voted 97 per cent in favour of strike action if necessary to support their contract position.
An earlier strike deadline of May 5 was extended to permit continued bargaining on Monday, May 10.
Key issues in dispute include wages, vacation entitlement, parental leave, premium payments for benefits, travel reimbursement and job security.
Bargaining team chair Marc Kinach said he hoped Monday would produce a tentative agreement. “All of us would prefer to continue working and keep on providing important services to vulnerable citizens,” he said, “but the direction from our members is a clear one: we deserve and want a fair contract.”
The agency has three offices in Belleville, including court diversion, and one each in Tweed, Bancroft, Trenton and Picton.
The staff involved, including clerical and support workers, case managers and community support workers, provide services in case management, housing and housing support, counselling, hospital liaison, geriatric services and social and recreational programs.
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For further information:
Marc Kinach – chair of bargaining team (cell) 613-847-4724
Mary Jane McDowell – bargaining team member (cell) 613-847-5004
