BANCROFT: More than 200 local families could soon be affected by a strike at North Hastings Children's Services.
The 15 NHCS staff, members of Ontario Public Service Employees Union Local 356, have given their bargaining team a 100 per cent strike vote after the employer demanded more concessions in bargaining for a first contract.
Mediation is scheduled for Feb. 1 with a strike deadline set for 12:01 Feb. 5.
"Before these workers joined OPSEU, they had agreed to give up their complete benefit package to help the employer; now the employer is seeking even more concessions" said Peter Dashfield, OPSEU staff representative.
"Enough is enough. These workers, without a raise for eight years, are simply fighting to keep what they have. They will strike rather than take more concessions."
The members believe the employer is simply not exploring all possible sources of funding.
NHCS is the only licensed child care in the North Hastings area.
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For further information:
Peter Dashfield, Staff representative: OPSEU Peterborough Office, 1-800-667-7860
