On November 2nd & 4th, the CUPE 391 Bargaining Committee had meetings with the employer’s bargaining team at the Maritime Labour Centre. This was the first time we had met with the employer since the summer and the two days enabled discussion to begin on contract language.
It is early days in the bargaining process and at this time there is nothing to report. However bargaining takes place against the backdrop of the branch staffing model review. The implications of that report by the consultancy group WMC and their recommendations will have a significant impact on library operations if fully implemented.
The CUPE 391 bargaining committee is aware of the concerns of staff following the report. We encourage you to make known your concerns at every opportunity with management. Such opportunities include staff meetings where you have the right to ask questions relating to any concerns you may have. In addition should you wish to address your concerns with the union please do consider attending the next general membership meeting to be held on November 15 at the Fraserview Library branch. Food and refreshments at 5:45pm and the meeting will begin at 6:15pm.
The next scheduled days of bargaining are in late November. You can expect another update at that time.
In solidarity, your bargaining committee, Brian Peaslee (chair), Aliza Nevarie, Jane Curry, Laurin Shadforth, Ed Dickson, Gary Jarvis and National Representative Zoe Magnus (lead spokesperson).