Two more striking OPSEU/SEFPO units reached settlements in the past week, ending strikes at Community Living Hanover and Community Living Renfrew County South. Workers are achieving historic deals and setting new standards for frontline community, health and social services workers – raising the floor for each other and those who will come to the bargaining table after them.
In total, workers at 12 community, health and social services agencies have reached deals, while workers at 11 agencies continue to walk the picket line in their shared fight. These workers support some of the most vulnerable people in our communities, including people with disabilities, women fleeing violence, and people experiencing mental health and addictions issues. But these workers have faced years of low wages – holding up critical services on their backs, while many of them have had to access emergency financial support or food banks, or work two or three jobs just to make ends meet.
Workers are standing strong and united. In a powerful show of solidarity this week, workers stood beside Local 441 – Brockville and Area Association for Community Living as they faced a forced last offer from their employer, and Local 441 members resoundingly voted NO!
Workers are achieving historic deals with wage increases and wins like defined benefit pensions and job protections. Workers are staying strong, knowing this isn’t just a fight for themselves – it’s a fight for the future of these services and the people they support.
Help striking workers hold the line – show your support and solidarity.