Home support workers employed by ParaMed Health Care in Renfrew county have called for a strike vote on Jan. 14 after contract talks broke down on the eve of the Christmas-New Year holiday break.
“We need a strong strike mandate because we were going nowhere at the table,” said Audrey Waito Prince, chair of the bargaining team and president of Local 492 which represents about 150 registered nurses, registered practical nurses, home and personal support workers and administrative staff.
“We have hit a brick wall with the employer over wages and benefits,” she added. Other issues in dispute include mileage rates and job security.
The two sides met two times with a conciliator in December. No further talks are currently scheduled.
Strike votes will be taken Jan. 14 at the following locations and times:
- Renfrew, Royal Canadian Legion, 10 am to 12 noon
- Barry"s Bay, Royal Canadian Legion, 1 pm. to 2 pm
- Pembroke, Royal Canadian Legion, 3 pm to 5 pm
The workers’ previous contract expired Dec. 31, 2012.
More information:
Nelson Ross-Laguna
OPSEU Staff Representative
Tel: 1-800-268-7376