Y stands for Yes as Sudbury 'Y' joins OPSEU

SUDBURY, ON, July 13, 2016 /CNW/ - Thirty-six staff working in employment and newcomer services at YMCA of Sudbury have chosen to become the latest members of the Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU).

OPSEU Regional Vice-President Jeff Arbus was very pleased with the result of the July 7 vote.

"This is great news for these hardworking employees," he said. "One of the many benefits they'll enjoy with OPSEU membership is increased job security – something they badly need right now so they can better plan for the future."

"But it's also good news for the Y and their clients. When working conditions are improved, staff retention is increased – and so is their experience and knowledge. The Y's reputation as a prominent community partner will be enhanced, while clients will benefit even more from the help they receive."

OPSEU President Warren (Smokey) Thomas agreed that the publicly funded programs offered by the YMCA were essential to the well-being of Ontario's communities.

"An agency delivering them should be setting an example to the employers they work with by treating their employees with respect," he said. "We'll be sitting down with the employer and these employees to make sure their employment conditions are fair."

"I congratulate them for choosing OPSEU," he continued. "We're proud of our long track record when it comes to standing up to employers who don't treat their workers with the respect they deserve."

"The newest members of the OPSEU family can rest assured that we'll be working as hard for them as they do for the many people in Sudbury who reach out to them for help."

YMCA of Sudbury provides a wide range of programs and services in the greater Sudbury area, including responsive and accessible programs, services and supports. Funding for these programs comes from a number of provincial government ministries.

SOURCE Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU)

Tracey Mussett, Organizing Representative, OPSEU, 647-226-0069