Public works employees in N.S. municipality on strike over wages, temporary worker protections

Unionized public works employees at the Region of Queens Municipality have gone on strike due to failed negotiations on various issues including wages, weekend work compensation, and protections for temporary employees. The strike involves workers in crucial areas such as water treatment, wastewater treatment, solid waste management, and infrastructure maintenance.

According to Jim Sponagle, business manager for the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 1928, up to 40 workers are part of the strike. However, Pam Lovelace, the municipality’s acting CAO, stated that only about 20 workers are currently on strike.

The municipality has assured residents that all municipal services will continue as usual during the strike, as per a notice posted on their website. The strike commenced on Thursday morning following a notice submitted by the workers on December 20. In response, the municipality issued a lockout notice.

Sponagle highlighted that one of the main issues leading to the strike is the significant wage disparity between union workers in the municipality and those in other jurisdictions. The municipality’s offer of wage increases of 1.5% in the first year and 2% in the subsequent two years was deemed inadequate considering the rising cost of living.

Another contentious point is the municipality’s proposal to compensate weekend work at straight time rates, which the union finds unacceptable. Additionally, the status of temporary workers has been a long-standing issue, with the union insisting that they should be included in the collective agreement.

Lovelace emphasized that only a small group of workers are on strike and non-union staff have taken over to ensure the municipality’s operations continue without disruption. The decision to lock out striking workers was made to prevent conflicts between union and non-union members in the workplace.

“We are hopeful that the union will return to the negotiating table so that we can resolve this issue promptly,” stated Lovelace. She also acknowledged that strikes are uncommon in Liverpool and that dealing with the situation is a new experience for many individuals involved.

Overall, the strike at the Region of Queens Municipality highlights the importance of fair wages, proper compensation for weekend work, and adequate protection for all employees, including temporary workers. Both parties are encouraged to engage in constructive dialogue to reach a mutually beneficial agreement and bring an end to the strike.