As many of you are aware, a lot has been going on in the union world regarding bargaining, wages, and collective agreements.
Here is an update on where CUPE Local 815 stands in regards to our contract, wages, and benefits.
Unit Assistants Permanent Compensation Enhancement
Halton Healthcare has received funding to implement the $2.00 per hour Permanent Compensation Enhancement for roles that meet the eligibility criteria as it pertains to Hospitals for the period of April 28, 2022 until March 31, 2023.
This wage enhancement, introduced by the Ford Government, was aimed at helping to stabilize, attract and retain the health workforce during the COVID-19 pandemic. If you feel that this should apply to everyone, let your voice be heard! Phone or email your MPP and tell them to respect us, protect us and pay us.
Bill 124
A decision released Tuesday from the Superior Court of Justice said the Protecting a Sustainable Public Sector for Future Generations Act (Bill 124) violated the Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
This means that, unless an appeal is successful, Bill 124 is to be void and of no effect. Our contracts are no longer under a moderation period of 1% for 3 years.
The OCHU Central Agreement that was just awarded includes a wage reopener clause. At this point we are unsure if wage increases will be negotiated, or arbitrated. There is an Executive OCHU call later this week to discuss the next steps. Watch the CUPE Local 815 website and Facebook page for continued information.
Local 815 Collective Agreement Bargaining
The Bargaining Committee has begun to prepare our proposals for our new collective agreement. We are planning to have negotiating dates with the hospital in January and February.
Halton Healthcare has not agreed to let us participate in Central Bargaining, however we do have a "me too" agreement in that any wage increases or any superior benefits will be negotiated into our contract. To see a summery of the Central award visit https://ochu.on.ca/2022/11/09/arbitration-updates-november-2022/
Since our contract has been expired since Sept 2021, there will be a retroactive payment for wages and benefits back to Sept 2021. The Local can't say for certain when this will be, but late spring/early summer wouldn't be unexpected, especially with the repeal of Bill 124.
In Solidarity
Local 815 Executive
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