Today at the bargaining table, the employer presented an offer for settlement that fell short of our expectations.

During this time, we diligently crafted multiple packages aimed at securing gains in benefits, language, and wages. Our next scheduled day of negotiations is June 7, 2024.

Stay attentive, as the bargaining team will be reaching out for your support in the coming weeks. Your involvement and solidarity are crucial as we continue to advocate for our collective interests.

In Solidarity,

CUPE 2977 Bargaining Committee

Today marked the seventh day of direct negotiations with the employer, and we’re making tangible progress. Both sides collaborated effectively, reaching agreements on several non-monetary issues. Our bargaining team has presented comprehensive monetary proposals, advocating for enhanced benefits, overtime compensation, and wages.

Now, it’s time to intensify our efforts. Thursday, May 16th is designated as SOLIDARITY DAY. We urge all members to proudly wear your CUPE 2977 shirts or any shade of green and stand in solidarity with our bargaining team. Together, we’re steadfastly pushing for improvements in our working conditions and ensuring our voices are heard.

In Solidarity,

Your Bargaining Committee

Dear 2977 Members:

I hope this message finds you all well. Today, we reconvened with the employer for another round of face-to-face negotiations. Once again, we were presented with proposals filled with concessions and cutbacks across various aspects, granting the employer increased flexibility at the expense of the life and work balance of our members.

At CUPE, we stand firm in our stance against concessions. Our commitment lies in moving negotiations forward, not backward. As the bargaining process intensifies, so does our resolve to advocate for the rights and well-being of our members.

Your unwavering support is invaluable as we navigate these challenging negotiations. Together, we will persist in championing the greater good for all involved.

Thank you for standing in solidarity with us.

Warm regards,

Your Bargaining Committee

We convened once more with the employer today, marking the fourth day of our face-to-face negotiations. Regrettably, the pace of progress remains sluggish, with the employer persisting in proposing concessions while simultaneously pressing for the withdrawal of vital language crucial to our interests.

Despite these challenges, our resolve remains unwavering. We are committed to advocating for the rights and well-being of our members, standing firm in our principles and objectives. As we prepare for another day of negotiations tomorrow, we are hopeful that a breakthrough may be on the horizon, enabling us to bring more positive news to share.

In solidarity,

Bargaining Team

Today marked our third negotiation session with the employer, and we wanted to provide you with an update on our progress.

While the process is unfolding at a slower pace than anticipated, it’s important to note that we’re steadfast in our commitment to securing better working conditions for all of us.  The employer has presented proposals that, unfortunately, do not align with the locals vision for improvement.  However, rest assured that the bargaining team is diligently representing your interests at the table. We were able to agree on one thing today.

We refuse to entertain any concessions that compromise the well-being and rights of our workforce. Our resolve remains unwavering—we will continue to advocate for what each and every one of you rightfully deserves.

Stay engaged and stay informed. Together, we will persevere until we achieve the fair and just outcomes we seek. Your support and solidarity are invaluable as we navigate through these negotiations.

We will be meeting next with the Employer on May 9, 10, 14, and 16.

Stay tuned for further updates.

In solidarity,

Your Bargaining Committee

Today was the second day at the bargaining table. There were many conversations, the employer did not move on much.  The Bargaining Committee worked diligently creating counter proposals to provide the employer for day three.  We loved seeing all your pictures! Keep them coming!

CUPE 2977 Bargaining Update

The first day at the bargaining table was a long day.  We met from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. We made some progress and agreed on some non-monetary items.  However, the employer has tabled concessions.  We will be meeting tomorrow and Thursday.  We will continue to update you at the end of each day, so stay tuned!

Please continue to wear your stickers for  the next two days to show your solidarity.  The Bargaining Committee would love to see you wearing your stickers.  Feel free to take pictures and send them to us (not on work hours or on work property)!

Bargaining FAQ

How will I be notified that job action has started?

Your bargaining and mobilization teams will keep you up to date with any activities including job action. Ensure your contact information is up to date including your personal phone number, personal email address, so we can provide you with regular voice mail updates.

What will be expected of you in the event of a strike?

In the event of a labour dispute, we will provide further direction.

All members will be expected to report for picket duty to receive their strike pay.

How will I be protected?

You cannot be disciplined for taking job action such as a strike.

Protections for job action apply to workers, regardless of status, this includes contract employees, probationary staff, and bargaining employees in temporary non-union roles.

How much strike pay will I receive?

If a full strike was necessary, more details will be available; the bargaining team will conduct membership meetings well in advance. Members will receive strike pay if they complete 20 hours of picket duty per week (4 hours per day, 5 days per week). Members on Short Term Disability (STD), Long Term Disability (LTD), WSIB benefits, or Social Services Benefits will not be eligible for strike benefits but will continue to receive their regular benefits. Strike pay is $400 per week. These amounts are non-taxable.

What about Health and Dental Benefits during a strike?

The Union through CUPE National will maintain the cost of benefit premiums so that there will be no interruption in health care benefits if our employer decides not to continue paying for them.

If there is any gap while CUPE National takes over this cost, the Union will issue reimbursements for out-of-pocket expenses that would otherwise be covered by the plan.

If I am off work on short term disability (STD) or long-term disability (LTD) prior to the strike, will I continue to be paid?

Your STD and LTD benefits will not be impacted by the strike.

What about if I am off on a WSIB claims?

Your WSIB benefits will not be impacted by the strike.

What if I have vacation booked during a strike?

This will be left up to the employer whether they honor the vacation request. You will not lose your vacation credits if the employer decides to cancel your vacation days. The union will grieve any pre-approved vacation payments that are not honored by the employer during a strike.

Does our workplace have any essential services?

No. This means all bargaining unit members have the right to participate in a work to rule campaign and to strike.

If a strike is necessary, will there be any assistance provided to ensure my mortgage lender understands?

Usually, lenders will defer payments during a legal strike for a period of time. We will have standard letters available online should a strike occur, that can be printed and presented to your lender. If your lender does not accept the letter, we ask that you contact us, and we will liaise with the team for further assistance.

Will union meeting(s) be held by the bargaining team before voting on a contract that the team recommends?

Yes. The bargaining team will present a tentative agreement prior to a general membership vote.

Has either party requested a No Board Report?

At this time neither party has called for a no board report and continue to work with a conciliator.

What is a no-board report?

If an agreement still cannot be reached, even with the help of a conciliation officer, either the union or the employer can request a ‘no-board report’ from the Ministry of Labour. Once requested, the Ministry will (typically) issue a ‘No Board Report’ within 5 days, which triggers a 17-day period before a lockout or strike is possible. We understand that no board reports may be delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

What is conciliation?

Conciliation happens when either side in bargaining (either the union or employer) asks to have conciliator appointed by the Ontario’s Ministry of Labour. Either side can request it. The conciliator assists the parties in achieving a deal. The conciliator must report to the Ministry within 14 days of being appointed, though if employer and union agree, that time can be extended.

What is the role of the Ministry of Labour Conciliator?

A conciliator or mediator is appointed by the Ministry of Labour to assist the parties in reaching a collective agreement.