WoodGreen workers vote to ratify collective agreement

TORONTO, Oct. 28, 2014 /CNW/ - Workers from WoodGreen Community Services voted 81% in favour of a new three year collective agreement ending a two week long strike at the organization.

Over 500 workers walked off the job on October 9^th when negotiations between Workers United Local 154 and WoodGreen broke down.

The new collective agreement will see a 4.5% wage increase for staff over the next three years, along with a reduction in hours before Personal Support Workers can become eligible for benefits.

"We're pleased that we have been able to come to an agreement and return to work so that we can continue serving our clients in the community," says Tammy Harnett, a child care worker and member of the Union's bargaining team.

Workers saw an outpouring of community and labour support during the strike.

"We're thankful to all the unions, community organizations, and neighbourhood residents who showed their solidarity and support for us during the strike," says Shaheen Ariefdien, a WoodGreen youth worker. "We are definitely a lot stronger and unified because of it."

SOURCE: Workers United Canada Council

Navjeet Sidhu, Workers United: [email protected], 416-510-0887 x274