Whitby labour talks restart, fail again

Whitby Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) Matt Gaskell said talks with striking CUPE Local 53 Full-time reopened last week, but broke down again.

“Bargaining continued with CUPE Local 53 Full-time this [last] week. Unfortunately, talks broke down after the town tabled our last offer that included changes aimed at finding a resolution that will end this strike, the CAO said..

He said the latest offer made changes to ensure zero impact on any current employee in their current position.

“Respecting CUPE’s concerns regarding work-life balance, we also increased the number of annual personal days that an employee can take from three to four. Personal days can be used by staff to attend medical appointments, specialist appointments, etc. These changes are in addition to our substantial financial proposal which includes a 9.5 per cent wage increase over three years, an increase to shift premiums, and significant benefit improvements. We are committed to finding a path forward but, like any modern employer, the town needs the ability to staff our programs and services at times that work for our residents,” Gaskell said.

“I strongly believe that the town’s offer is a generous and fair one that balances the needs of our workforce and growing community. Unfortunately, CUPE has chosen to remain on strike,” he added.

The  CAO said the town’s current focus is on expanding services delivery to residents through yard waste collection and disposal, the gradual reopening of facilities and arenas, the continued operation of waste drop-off sites, and plans for contracted snow removal services, with more to come. “This is what our community needs right now and expects from us.”