Staying ready in Kitchener

CEIU’s local in Kitchener, Ontario, is keeping up the pressure on the employer. Members continue to hold daily noon-hour demonstrations despite the return to the bargaining table. “We all want the negotiations to produce a good contract” said Local President Dina Reyes, “but our members don’t really trust the government after how we’ve been treated.” If the negotiations do not go well, Local 592 will be ready for strike action.

In addition to the noon-hour demos, the local has been working closely with striking PSAC members at the Canada Revenue Agency and increasing the union presence in the workplace with buttons and other material. Emails are flying off to bargaining team members offering support and the local MP is receiving a strong message that only a fair deal will do.

The local also took advantage of an October 1 visit by the Prime Minister to make their point about negotiations. The PM had wanted to use the visit to generate positive publicity for his government, but picketing members shut down his press conference. Good work, Kitchener!

PSAC members in Kitchener, Ontario force the cancellation of a Paul Martin press conference.