KAWARTHA LAKES-Some Ontario Education workers could legally go on strike on November 3rd.
CUPE, the union representing 50,000 education workers which include Early Childhood Educators, Educational Assistants, administration staff and custodians voted overwhelmingly in favour of strike action in a vote on October 3 if no contract could be reached with the government. The union then asked the Ministry of Labour for a “no board’ report which means that a board of conciliation will not be appointed clearing the way to a strike. The union is required to give five-days notice of strike action.
“It is important that as workers, we use this time to build power amongst ourselves, students, families and our communities,” said CUPE in a tweet. “Please ensure that your full contact information is with the local union and that you have completed Form E, in order to receive strike pay.”
The parties are currently meeting in Toronto and have entered into mediation in an attempt to come to an agreement.
The union wants a yearly wage increase of $3.25/hour (11.7%), ECE’s in every kindergarten class, 30 minutes of prep time and an increase in overtime pay as well as other concessions.
The Ontario government offered a four-year deal consisting of a 2% annual raise for workers who make under $40,000 year and 1.25 % for those making more.