Extendicare Breaks off Talks with the CAW

TORONTO, April 26 /CNW/ - Talks between the CAW and Extendicare have broken off after the company walked away from negotiations. The for-profit long term care home provider is demanding a two-year wage freeze, in addition to a number of other concessions.

This company is attempting to use the provincial government's wage freeze (Bill 16) despite the fact that it is not a government agency, but a for-profit provider. Extendicare made $2.2 billion in profits last year, according to its own figures.

"This company even admits that it is not covered by the provincial wage freeze, but is trying to take advantage of its staff," said CAW President Ken Lewenza. "This company's attitude and demands are wholly unfounded and are unacceptable to the workers and their bargaining committee.

"This company is highly profitable and workers deserve to be justly compensated for their efforts," said Lewenza.

The CAW will begin rotating protests on Thursday, April 29 in Oakville.

The CAW represents 1,200 workers at Extendicare at 10 homes in London (CAW Local 302), Port Stanley (CAW Local 302), Kingston (CAW Local 830), Windsor (CAW Local 2458), Sault Saint Marie (CAW Local 1120), Oakville (CAW Local 504) and Ottawa (CAW Local 830).

For further information: CAW Communications, Shannon Devine, (cell) [phone]