Campbellford, Ontario – New radio ads hit the airwaves today to rally community support for striking union members at Community Living Campbellford/Brighton (CLCB).
The nearly 100 members of Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU) Local 316 have been on strike since March 22, and have garnered immense support from their community and the families they provide care to through CLCB.
“People can see that we just want to get back to work, and it’s the employer who isn’t allowing that to happen,” said Courtney Huycke, OPSEU 316 bargaining team member. “The ads are aimed at telling supporters exactly how they can show their support to help us put an end to this strike.”
Wages and transportation are two sticking points in the negotiations, which failed to produce an agreement when the parties last met March 28. CLCB is demanding that the workers accept real wage cuts and insisting that staff agree to use their own cars as a condition of employment, which has raised concerns of cost, liability, and health and safety.
“This strike is about recognizing the value of the work my members do every day,” said OPSEU President Warren (Smokey) Thomas. “They do vital work for their community. They help people live with respect and dignity, and they love that work. But this employer has to get back to the bargaining table and get serious about ending this strike.”
The 30-second radio ad being featured on stations across Campbellford, Brighton, and the surrounding area invites people to visit respectforcaregivers.ca to find out how they can support the strikers.
The ad will air on CIYM-FM/Oldies 100.9, CKSG-FM 93.3 MyFM, CFMX-FM Rock 107.9, CJWV-FM Oldies 96.7, and CKOL-FM 93.7, and can be heard here:
OPSEU members at CLCB provide support for adults with intellectual disabilities in Campbellford, Brighton, and the surrounding area.
For more information: Warren (Smokey) Thomas, 613-329-1931