Bargaining update from Gary Jarvis, Bargaining Committee member

Wow! What a great response to the bargaining survey. We are really happy with the information you have provided to us. We received more responses this year than in previous bargaining rounds. Part-timers and auxiliary staff have particular reason to be happy as the ratio of completed surveys this year matches the ratio of full-timers to part-timers and auxiliaries in the workplace.

Job security came out as a significant concern. Improvements for part timers and auxiliaries, wages and pay equity were other major issues for our members. Now the bargaining committee is drafting proposals based on what you’ve told us in preparation for the ratification meeting (November 2011).

We know for sure that we need to do something to address the inequalities experienced by our part-timers and auxiliaries. 85% of those who answered the survey do not have access to benefits, while 39% earn less than the annual Low Income Cut-Off figure of $18,759. More than half of our part-timers and auxiliaries who answered the survey state that they are not given fair and equitable access to hours.

If you have any questions, we are always happy to hear from you: askbargaining@cupe391.ca