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NORTH BAY – Workers for Nipissing Mental Health Housing and
Support Services will be on strike by next Monday if contract talks fail at the
end of this week. The workers, members of OPSEU Local 636, will be in a legal
strike position as of 12:01 a.m. Saturday, April 5, 2008.
The workers, who are negotiating their first contract with the
employer, have not received a wage increase in over five years. Worse, the
employer is proposing to reduce sick time benefits and eliminate any vision or
dental coverage.
“This is absolutely ludicrous,” said OPSEU bargaining team
member Gaetene Shank. “We have tabled a responsible position, with a very modest
wage increase proposal. All this employer wants to do is rip things out of the
pockets of our members.”
Shank said the last thing they want to do is go on strike, but
they may be left with few options. “Our members are proud of the services they
provide to this community. However, we can’t accept these kinds of cuts at the
bargaining table.”
The union and the employer will meet with the assistance of a
mediator this Friday in hopes that labour action can be avoided.
Nipissing Mental Health Housing and Support Services employ 16
workers providing support services to individuals with a serious mental illness.
These services include treatment plan compliance and day-to-day living skills
such has grocery shopping, budgeting and attending dental or medical
appointments. |
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For more information:
Gaetene Shank 705-492-9301 or 705-594-2346
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