Locals rally for bargaining team in May

More action planned for June after insulting pay offer

CEIU locals showed their support for the PA team as negotiations continued in May with the Treasury Board. The news from the bargaining table has not been good, however, and the PSAC plans more action in June.

On Prince Edward Island, local leaders attended training sessions on collective bargaining and mobilization, and fitted in a lobster party at the end.

At Carleton Place in Ontario, one of CEIU’s smallest offices made its voice heard. Wearing green and black shirts every Monday and Wednesday, members Lynda Finnigan and Joy Lacasse are sending two messages: “The green is saying we want a decent pay increase—and not the peanuts they just offered. The black is telling Treasury Board to get serious because we’ve been without a contract for almost a year” said Finnigan.

In Gander, Newfoundland, members spread the word about the union’s salary proposal with PSAC leaflets that urged members to “Stand Up and Speak Out.” Meanwhile in Stephenville, members took their message to the street in front of their workplace.

At CEIU’s Calgary local, “Show us the money” cakes were distributed to members in all workplaces along with buttons, stickers and flags. Members are deeply unhappy with the employer’s pay offer and promise more action in support of the bargaining team on June 19.

“Our locals continue to do great work around bargaining” said National President Jeannette Meunier-McKay, “but in view of the employer’s pay offer, we have to do even more.” At the most recent bargaining sessions, the Treasury Board offered a four-year agreement with increases of 1.5% in 2007, 1.5% in 2008, 1.2% in 2009 and 1.2% in 2010. The union had proposed a 4.5% raise in each year of a three-year contract along with changes to the increment system and other adjustments. “MP’s recently gave themselves a $4600 raise but the government offers us next to nothing,” Meunier-McKay continued, “and this insulting offer arrives after nearly a year of foot-dragging at the bargaining table. Members are truly fed up.”

The PSAC will be responding to the Treasury Board offer with rallies and other events on June 19, the one-year anniversary of the expiration of the old PA contract. CEIU locals are urged to participate and can contact the PSAC regional office in their area for additional information and resources.