OPSEU members at Fred Victor deliver strong strike mandate

TORONTO, Dec. 2, 2016 /CNW/ - Members of the Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU) working at Fred Victor have voted 88 per cent in favour of strike action if negotiations of a new contract fail.

"This is a massive endorsement of the bargaining team," said OPSEU Local 509 vice-president Marg Robinson of the strike vote results. "The members here came together and decided we have to stand firm if we're going to negotiate a fair contract." 

Key issues on the table include workplace violence, stress leave and alternate work arrangements, wages, as well as benefits for relief and casual staff.

"Our members at Fred Victor have been through the wringer with this very obstinate employer," said OPSEU President Warren (Smokey) Thomas. "But this bargaining team has no intention of backing down, and the membership is clearly behind them. Let this strong strike mandate be a wake-up call for the employer."

Fred Victor Centre is a non-profit agency that provides a wide range of programs and housing support services to people experiencing homelessness.

SOURCE Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU)

OPSEU Negotiator Ron Johnson, 416-460-5086