TORONTO, Feb. 10, 2016 /CNW/ - Summer caseworkers at Parkdale Community Legal Services (PCLS) in Toronto have voted unanimously to ratify their first-ever collective agreement.
The new unit, formed in August 2015, represents approximately 20 students enrolled in the Osgoode Hall Law program and working at PCLS from May to August. In the 45-year history of PCLS, this collective agreement marks the first time these summer caseworkers have a legal say over their wages and working conditions.
"This is the first bargaining unit of its kind in the legal aid sector," OPSEU President Warren (Smokey) Thomas said. "This new collective agreement will change the nature of the clinic for the better, as well as bolster other organizing efforts across Ontario's legal sector. Thanks to the professionalism and dedication of our bargaining team, these students now have a solid first collective agreement.
"Congratulations to all involved in this significant achievement."
Highlights of the deal include:
PCLS is both a teaching clinic for Osgoode Hall Law School and a poverty law organization that primarily serves low-income clients in downtown Toronto. PCLS specializes in the areas of landlord/tenant law, immigration law, workers' rights issues, and social assistance issues.
SOURCE Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU)
Image with caption: "Summer caseworkers at Parkdale Community Legal Services unanimously ratify first contract (CNW Group/Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU))". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20160210_C3382_PHOTO_EN_617977.jpg
Sue Dafoe, Staff Representative, 416-443-8888 ext.2475, [email protected]
The Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU) is one of the most progressive and powerful unions in Ontario. It represents 165,000 frontline workers who provide a vast array of public services in communities across the province. They work in provincial government...
Also from this source
Also from this source
Share this article