CEIU locals keep bargaining issues on the front burner

On March 17, members of Local 20975 (Victoria) wore green but the message they were sending Treasury Board was “Show us the money!” In Ontario, members at the Peterborough local raised a few eyebrows as they highlighted bargaining issues with costume dress. It’s all part of keeping issues at the bargaining table on the front burner.

In Peterborough, Local President Linda Vizza said, “We dressed up for fun but we’re serious about a decent contract. One of our main concerns at Service Canada is the employer’s push to turn more day workers into shift workers. For family life, this would be a real hardship.”

The Victoria local shares the same concerns, but put its emphasis on the monetary side of bargaining. “Wearing green honours St. Patrick, of course” said Local President Mandi Schubert, “but wearing green is also a way of saying ‘Show us the money!’ Victoria is a pricey place to live and we need a good financial settlement.”

The union’s PA bargaining team was at the table March 4 to 6, and while it reported some progress, it was clear that the employer was still arguing for changes to allow more shift work. The team will resume negotiations during the week of April 21 and is asking locals to carry out at least one support activity before then. PSAC regional offices have materials, including wristbands that locals can use as part of their activities.