Tentative agreements for last two locals in Ontario strike

Developmental services in London and Prince Edward County may soon be back on the job

Toronto (16 August 2007) - The last two of seven groups of developmental services workers on strike in Ontario have reached tentative settlements, says the Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU/NUPGE).

In London, 450 developmental services workers reached a settlement on Thursday afternoon. They were scheduled to vote on it later in the day. The local employees had been on strike since June 23.

Meanwhile, in Prince Edward County, an additional 150 employees came to terms with their employer on Wednesday and will conduct a ratification vote on Friday. They had been off the job just over one week.

“Our members have really raised the bar,” said OPSEU President Warren (Smokey) Thomas.

“Throughout these seven strikes, OPSEU members have remained steadfast and focused on their goals. The wage and other improvements already achieved will help rebuild the sector and improve the quality of life for the people our members support," Thomas said.

“These have been tough strikes, but you took a tremendous step forward because you were willing to walk a picket line for fairness,” he told the employees.

Note: Ratification of the final two settlements was announced by OPSEU on August 17. NUPGE