Workers without new deal since March 31
About 100 employees with Avenue II Community Program Services in Thunder Bay could be locked out as early as Sept. 27 following a ‘no board’ request, said the Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU).
The workers — who support individuals with developmental disabilities — have been without a contract since March 31, 2016.
The employer had short-circuited the process by requesting a “no board” report, which will set the clock ticking down to a possible labour disruption, according to Silvana Cacciatore, president of OPSEU Local 738.
“On August 24, after just five hours with the conciliator, the employer presented us with their final offer and a request for a no-board,” said Cacciatore.
Workers are resisting a pilot project that would significantly impact members’ schedules. Further, the employer has demanded that all outstanding grievances be withdrawn, said the union.
Last June, union members voted 96 per cent in favour of giving their team a mandate to call a strike, if necessary, according to OPSEU.
