More than 1,000 workers could be on strike by June 25 with 15 other groups ready to follow
London (20 June 2007) - A major showdown is shaping in between developmental services workers and the Ontario government.
More than 1,000 staff members at Community Living London, Middlesex Community Living, the Elgin Association for Community Living and Community Living Chatham-Kent could all be on strike as of June 25.
Staff in London will be in a strike position as of June 23. Meanwhile, 16 other agencies across the province have also taken strong strike votes.
The first information picket lines went up June 15 in locations across southwestern Ontario to raise awareness about the government's lack of support for people with developmental disabilities.
“We really want to avoid a service disruption if we can,” says Denise Sands, president of Local 144 of the Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU/NUPGE).
“It’s up to the government to come forward with the necessary funding and we hope everyone will join us in calling on the Premier to make services for the people we support a priority, before it’s too late," Sands adds.
“The government’s been able to get away with under-funding services for people with developmental disabilities because most people just don’t realize it’s happening,” she adds.
“We’re determined to make sure everyone knows this government may talk a good line, but when it comes to making the people we support a priority, they’re failing.”
Employers in general agree with staff that the biggest problem facing developmental services is low wages. Staff are leaving the profession for equivalent positions in other fields because the pay is 25-30% more. Agencies can’t get enough qualified staff. NUPGE
More information:
Developmental services strikes loom in Ontario
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