Workers at Community Living Meaford receive strike mandate

TORONTO, June 22, 2012 /CNW/ - A large majority of workers at Community Living Meaford (CLM) have voted in favour of a strike should that action become necessary. A strike vote was taken after talks stalled at conciliation on Tuesday, June 12, 2012.

The employer refused to consider a new contract based on the pattern that has been set in the rest of Ontario. Workers have been without a contract since March 31, 2010.

"There is no good reason for conciliation to have broken down," said OPSEU President, Warren (Smokey) Thomas. "These workers have waited a long time for a new contract, and deserve fairness. They have their union's full support as they deal with this difficult employer."

Deb Farrar, OPSEU Local President at CLM said: "Workers at Community Living Meaford are simply asking that the employer value our work and the importance of our contribution to the community. We are dedicated to serving the needs of the people and families we support, and are only asking for respect and fairness."

"Our members have given a strong message that they will do what it takes to support our bargaining team and reach a resolution to this negotiating impasse," said Farrar.

"It is very frustrating that our employer refuses to acknowledge the established province-wide pattern for developmental services workers contracts," added Farrar. "We believe that workers at Meaford are worth as much as others providing the same services to their communities."

Developmental Services workers at Community Living Meaford provide support to people with disabilities in the Meaford area.

Deb Farrar, OPSEU Local President at CLM:  519-599 2351
Lynne Easter-Froats, OPSEU staff negotiator: 519-657-8312