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'The employer is being stubborn and blocking a deal.' - OPSEU.
Toronto (10 Nov. 2010) - Workers at Maisons de la famille, also known as Groupe Action pour l’enfant, la famille et la communauté de Prescott-Russell, have set a strike deadline of Nov. 15.
The employees are represented by the Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU/NUPGE).
After meeting in conciliation on Oct. 27, the employer refused to back down on its demand to be able to move workers from one town to another. Management also wants to be able to switch people from place to place at whim - without compensation, and has refused to address any other bargaining issues.
“The employer is being stubborn and blocking a deal,” says OPSEU staff representative, Paul Sharkey. “Unless there is a serious indication from Maisons de la famille that they are willing to negotiate in good faith, workers will walk on November 15.”
Other key issues include the imposition of split shifts and non-consecutive days off. Members are currently preparing to strike if necessary to win a fair contract.
Through the “Fiers de nos enfants” programs at the Maisons de la famille, staff provide support for children up to age six and to their parents. Offering front-line education and parenting assistance to families in Prescott-Russell County, the OPSEU unit addresses the needs of several different communities.
Worksites are located in the eastern Ontario communities of Hawkesbury, Embrun and Rockland as well as several satellite centres.
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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