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NSGEU members hold info picket at Dalhousie University after 78% vote in favour of strike

Find out why bargaining has broken down at Dalhousie University during the NSGEU/NUPGE info picket tomorrow.

Halifax (09 March 2012) - Members of the Nova Scotia Government & General Employees Union (NSGEU/NUPGE) who provide vital support services at Dalhousie University are holding an information picket today to raise public attention to the issues in bargaining.

The 846 members of the union local have voted by a significant majority to reject the employer’s latest offer and proceed towards a strike. In total, 706 members cast a ballot in the strike vote; 78 per cent of those ballots were in favour of strike. Sixty-five per cent of the entire bargaining unit voted in favour of strike, well above the 50 per cent plus one legal requirement.

In order to avoid a strike during upcoming exams and registration for next year, the employer must back away from its wage and pension demands.

The information picket will begin at 11:50 am at the Student Union Building at Dalhousie University. The members will march to the intersection of Robie Street and University Avenue where they will picket until 12:20 pm. Their message to the employer: Paws Off Our Pension.

The NSGEU/NUPGE members will be providing information to the public explaining why bargaining broke down and NSGEU President Joan Jessome will be present to answer questions.

These members provide vital support services to the Dalhousie University in administration, IT, and library services. Their contract expired June 30, 2011.

NUPGE

The National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE) is one of Canada's largest labour organizations with over 340,000 members. Our mission is to improve the lives of working families and to build a stronger Canada by ensuring our common wealth is used for the common good. NUPGE