After two years without a contract they are offered only 2% over three years
Saskatoon (16 June 2006) - Staff at an Elizabeth Fry Society halfway house who've been without a contract for two years have gone on strike in Saskatoon.
The Saskatchewan Government and General Employees Union (SGEU/NUPGE) says a management offer of a 2% increase over three years is unacceptable.
Staff receive wages that are only 68% of the wages paid to staff at the province's men's community training residences, according to the union.
The residence offers a place for female inmates to serve part of their jail sentence in the community and to learn skills to help them re-integrate into society.
The workers gave strike notice nearly two weeks ago. At the time, the provincial corrections department said plans were being made to take care of the women at the home in the event of a strike.
Their last contract expired in March 2004.
Footnote:
Elizabeth Fry societies are dedicated to working with women in conflict with the law. The philosophy of the Saskatchewan society includes the following statement: "To effectively prevent crime committed by women and fully integrate women offenders in the community, the socio-economic conditions under which women live must be remedied." NUPGE
More information:
• Elizabeth Fry employees demand pay equity
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