KAWARTHAS-Developmental service workers who support people living with a developmental delay / intellectual disability in Lindsay, Haliburton and Peterborough will be back on the job following a 10 week strike action.
Over 300 members of OPSEU 358 hit the picket lines on May 25th. It was part of a broader province wide campaign called: Worth Fighting For. Locally it impacted the Family Support program, Supported Independent Living, Building Bridges, Job Quest and day programming. More than 25 OPSEU/SEFPO locals representing over 4,000 community and public service workers across Ontario were on strike.
The workers main campaign demand is Bill 124 remedy, after years of “wage suppression” that capped increases at 1% annually, leaving many workers thousands behind according to OPSEU.
The union says despite Bill 124 being struck down, thousands of workers are still waiting for compensation and fair funding for critical community services.
The campaign called for a 6.5% retroactive wage adjustment and long-term funding to stabilize services and prevent layoffs.
On August 4th is was announced the parties had reached an agreement.
“The path forward is one of reconciliation and renewed strength. Community Living Trent Highlands is driven by a commitment to those we serve, and to the employees who make that care possible. As we return to full service delivery, we do so with appreciation for a community that continues to stand with us.” said Community Living on Facebook.
While Local 358 is returning to work, not every bargaining unit has reached an agreement and some are still on strike.
“Our fight doesn’t end here. We’ll continue demanding that Doug Ford’s government remedy the unconstitutional wage suppression caused by Bill 124. Developmental services workers deserve fair wages, strong public services, and respect at the bargaining table.” said the union.
No details were released. Staff return to work on Friday.
