Youth workers at Arrell Youth Centre soundly reject concessions to their health and drug plans
HAMILTON, ON, March 26, 2018 /CNW/ - The 60 members of OPSEU Local 216 at Arrell Youth Centre have said a resounding 'No' to the health plan rollbacks their employer is trying to force on them.
"Our members are outraged by the way we're being treated," said Len Mancini, the chair of the Local 216 Arrell Youth Centre bargaining committee. "Our employer wants us to pick up more of the cost of our health plan, accept a cap on our drug plan, pay for 100 per cent of the cost of our long-term disability plan, and work without any WSIB coverage.
"Our members voted on all of those concessions and they've given their answer loud and clear: No!"
Arrell Youth Centre is a residential detention centre in Hamilton that provides secure custody and program services for up to 16 male youth. It is currently operating at capacity. The members of Local 216 have been without a contract since April 1, 2017.
Bargaining continues in conciliation on April 4. OPSEU President Warren (Smokey) Thomas is warning the employer not to return to the table underestimating the resolve or the strength of the members of Local 216.
"These OPSEU members are on the front lines, putting themselves at risk each and every day to ensure that our communities are safe and that our youth receive the best possible care and rehabilitation," said Thomas.
"Demanding rollbacks is a slap in the face to them and to the communities they serve. They're not about to sit back and take it, and neither are we," Thomas said. "They have my full support, and the support of the 155,000 other members of this great union."
SOURCE Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU)
OPSEU Local 216 Arrell Youth Centre bargaining chair Len Mancini: 905-317-9366; OPSEU President Warren (Smokey) Thomas: 613-329-1931
Share this article