Deal includes wages increases, lump-sum payment
Unifor support workers at the Windsor-Essex Catholic District School Board (WECDSB ) have ratified a new collective agreement, bringing a five-week work stoppage to an end.
"Our members are pleased to be returning on Monday to resume frontline work to aid students and provide a safe and healthy school environment," said Bruce Dickie, Unifor Local 2458 president.
The new agreement was ratified by 99 per cent by the office, clerical and technician unit and 94 per cent by the custodial and maintenance unit, according to the union.
Unifor Local 2458 represents 370 members in two bargaining units at WECDSB consisting of office, clerical workers and technicians, and custodians and maintenance staff.
The contract contains wage increases of 1.5 per cent in 2016, 2017 and 2018, along with a lump sum payment upon ratification to match wages given to other public sector school boards between 2014 and 2016. The agreement will also reinstate and offer retiree benefits to seniority members and previously retired members, those not eligible for retiree benefits will receive cash payments ranging from $1,000 to $35,000 based on years of service. Additionally, the union has secured language to guarantee that no lay-offs will occur over the life of the contract which expires on August 31, 2019, said the union.
