The Factual Report on Corrections Negotiations
Issue 23 - February 14, 2002
“I’d rather vote for something I want and not get it than vote for something I don’t want, and get it.” - Eugene V. Debs
Arrogant and insulting
Contract offer “a joke”
At the Corrections Table, the employer didn’t table an offer - they tabled an insult.
After eight weeks of having our proposals completely ignored by this employer, we have received a so-called “offer” that isn’t worth the paper it is written on. What came across the table was an insult to every man and woman who risk their lives every day to keep this province safe.
The employer has offered the Corrections Category 1.95 per cent per year for three years. The employer is also offering in addition up to 0.5 per cent for the first year only, provided that classified staff completely sell out the unclassified staff.
Under the employer’s proposal, classified staff may get the additional 0.5 per cent in the first year by allowing the employer to make it nearly impossible for unclassified staff to get converted to full time.
The employer also maintains its position on “call back,” an issue with virtually no impact on the Corrections Category.
The Central Table received exactly the same offer, reinforcing the employer’s refusal to recognize Corrections as a distinct entity in the public service.
“The arrogance of this employer is beyond comprehension,” said Dave Graves, vice-chair of the Corrections Bargaining Team. “Our members are facing the worst stress and working conditions in living memory. How dare they ignore every proposal that we put forward on behalf of our members. Now is the time to show
this employer exactly what we think of their insulting proposal.”
The Corrections Team unanimously recommends that members cast a loud and resounding NO vote on Feb. 26, 27 and 28.
“This isn’t a serious offer - it’s a joke,” Graves said. “The employer wants to test the members to see if they are serious about backing their elected team. We want a 100 per cent rejection of this insult. That will give us the power we need at the bargaining table to bring back to you a real contract offer.”
Say “NO” to local negotiations - for now!
Your Corrections Bargaining Team again reminds all local executives that all Local and Ministry negotiations are suspended. This includes any protocols on Essential Services (rotations and availability lists), picket line protocols, or protocols with local police.
The employer continues to treat all of us with disdain and contempt. We will advise you when it’s time to start getting these lists and protocols prepared.
We strongly recommend that you contact your regional bargaining team member if you have any questions regarding this issue.
Who writes this stuff?
Do you wonder who is writing the material that is appearing in The Correct View?
Your elected bargaining team members write all of the articles in this weekly newsletter. It is a total team effort. From assigning and writing articles to editing, all of the material is compliments of the Corrections Bargaining Team.
We would like to thank all of the members who have sent us e-mails of encouragement and thanks. It is gratifying to read that our members are informed and ready to support their bargaining team in doing “Whatever it takes” to get an “A” contract.
The Team also acknowledges the efforts of the Member Mobilizers and OPSEU staff who make sure this newsletter reaches everyone each week.
Thunder Bay refuses to provide training
Members of Local 708 (Thunder Bay Correctional Centre) and Local 737 (Thunder Bay Jail) have notified their managers that they will not be providing any training (MSA, First Aid, CPR, WHMIS, etc.) until a new Collective Agreement is reached.
“The members want the training, and they’re letting the employer know that it is to be provided by a manager,” said Len Mason, Corrections Bargaining Team member. “Why should we help the employer right now? When they start treating our members with respect, we will resume helping them run their institutions.”
Wrong number in strike manual
The fax number to send in "OPT OUT" forms on page 57 of the Inside Strike Manual is incorrect. The number listed is (416) 488-7451.
The correct fax number is (416) 448-7451. Please do NOT send faxes to the number listed in the manual.
Bargaining hotlines available
The OPS Bargaining Information Hotline is now available. A recorded message will give members updates about bargaining. You can reach the Information Hotline at 1-866-811-7274.
You can also call the OPS Mobilizing Hotline to find out how to get plugged into actions across the province. The Mobilizing Hotline number is 1-877-561-8692.
See you at the info meetings
Voting on the employer’s offer will take place on Feb. 26, 27 and 28. Prior to that vote, information meetings about the offer will be held across the province.
Members of the Corrections Bargaining Team will attempt to attend all of these meetings, and we ask that, if possible, all members attend as well.
The dates of these information meetings will be posted at your worksite.
Corrections team members
Region 1: Jack Hopkins, L. 122
Region 2: Barry Scanlon, L. 230 (chair)
Region 3: Larry Cripps, L. 309
Region 4: Jim Bothwell, L. 467
Region 5: Dave Graves, L. 521 (vice-chair)
Region 6: Rick Dagenais, L. 642
Region 7: Len Mason, L. 737
You can reach the bargaining team at (416) 815-0284 or by e-mail at correctionsteam@opseu.org.
The Correct View is your only accurate source of Corrections Team information during this round of bargaining. If you don’t read it here, you can't be sure it's true. Don’t rely on gossip and rumours. We will provide the facts.
The Correct View will be available by fax, by e-mail, and on the OPSEU web site at www.opseu.org . To receive it directly, send your secure fax number to Lesley Williams at (416) 443-1762 or send your e-mail address to
lwilliams@opseu.org.
The Correct View is authorized for distribution by Barry Scanlon, chair, Corrections team, and Leah Casselman, president.
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