by Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star posted Jun 24, 2015 at 1:00 AM
The City of Vernon and its unionized firefighters are trying to find middle ground. Council has inked a contract with the International Association of Firefighters for 2013 to 2015. Both sides have not had a deal since 2012. “It’s a new collective agreement and we’re happy with the terms,” said Brent Bond, IAFF local 1517 president. The pact includes a 2.5 per cent salary increase for each year, effective Jan. 1, 2013. Will Pearce, the city’s chief administrative officer. is pleased with the process. “It clears the deck and gets everyone paid for what they earned,” he said. “We can then sit down and talk about where we go for 2016, 2017 and 2018. It’s a practical way to do business.” A challenge has been that a 2.5 per cent compensation increase is standard across B.C., with most fire departments having wage parity with their Vancouver counterparts. “A number of Lower Mainland contracts are for seven years or longer and the cumulative impact of 2.5 per cent is significant,” said Pearce. Complicating matters further is that council’s strategic plan calls for the city’s overall operating budget to fall within each year’s consumer price index (it is presently 0.9 per cent). “You could have a big gap between anticipated budgets and true costs,” said Pearce. Between 2013 and 2015, the city has banked funds in anticipation of a contract agreement. “We are current with our financial obligations to our firefighters.” Bond is looking forward to the union entering into the next round of negotiations with the city. “They can get prepared for the next few years,” he said.
Showing posts with label labor contracts. Show all posts
Showing posts with label labor contracts. Show all posts
Wednesday, June 24, 2015
Tuesday, June 23, 2015
City of Vernon inks deal with firefighters
by Staff Writer - Vernon Morning Star posted Jun 23, 2015 at 10:00 AM
The City of Vernon has reached a new contract with the International Association of Firefighters from Jan. 1, 2013, to Dec. 31, 2015. The new collective agreement extends the terms of the previous agreement, which expired Dec. 31, 2012, with the exception of a small number of negotiated clauses as well as a revised pay schedule. The agreement makes provision for a 2.5 per cent salary increase for each year, effective Jan. 1, 2013. “The Vernon Professional Firefighters Association is happy with the new agreement that provides a fair wage for the membership,” said Brent Bond, union president.“We are pleased we could come to a negotiated settlement.” “We were encouraged by both parties working hard to reach an MOA to the end of 2015,” added Mayor Akbal Mund.
Negotiations will recommence early fall for the period beyond Jan. 1, 2016.
The City of Vernon has reached a new contract with the International Association of Firefighters from Jan. 1, 2013, to Dec. 31, 2015. The new collective agreement extends the terms of the previous agreement, which expired Dec. 31, 2012, with the exception of a small number of negotiated clauses as well as a revised pay schedule. The agreement makes provision for a 2.5 per cent salary increase for each year, effective Jan. 1, 2013. “The Vernon Professional Firefighters Association is happy with the new agreement that provides a fair wage for the membership,” said Brent Bond, union president.“We are pleased we could come to a negotiated settlement.” “We were encouraged by both parties working hard to reach an MOA to the end of 2015,” added Mayor Akbal Mund.
Negotiations will recommence early fall for the period beyond Jan. 1, 2016.
Tuesday, June 16, 2015
City, firefighters reach deal
by Wayne Moore CASTANET - Jun 15, 2015 / 8:45 pm
Long-term labour peace between the City of Kelowna and its professional firefighters has been reached. City council and Local 953 of the International Association of Firefighters both ratified a new collective agreement Monday. The deal provides both long-term cost certainty and labour stability. “We are pleased with this long-term agreement that provides fair wage and benefit improvements for our members,” said IAFF Local 953 President Dennis Miller. The seven-year agreement covers the period from Jan. 1, 2013 to Dec. 31, 2019. The contract follows recent agreements throughout the province with 2.5 per cent annual increases over the life of the agreement for fire prevention, training and suppression staff and 1.25 per cent per year increases for new dispatch and administrative staff. “This agreement provides for improvements for our employees who have been without an agreement since 2012 and we were also able to agree on some new contract language that will help the City significantly reduce costs for overtime and dispatch services,” said the City of Kelowna’s lead negotiator, Stu Leatherdale.
Long-term labour peace between the City of Kelowna and its professional firefighters has been reached. City council and Local 953 of the International Association of Firefighters both ratified a new collective agreement Monday. The deal provides both long-term cost certainty and labour stability. “We are pleased with this long-term agreement that provides fair wage and benefit improvements for our members,” said IAFF Local 953 President Dennis Miller. The seven-year agreement covers the period from Jan. 1, 2013 to Dec. 31, 2019. The contract follows recent agreements throughout the province with 2.5 per cent annual increases over the life of the agreement for fire prevention, training and suppression staff and 1.25 per cent per year increases for new dispatch and administrative staff. “This agreement provides for improvements for our employees who have been without an agreement since 2012 and we were also able to agree on some new contract language that will help the City significantly reduce costs for overtime and dispatch services,” said the City of Kelowna’s lead negotiator, Stu Leatherdale.
Tuesday, October 28, 2014
CUPE, City reach deal
by Carmen Weld CASTANET- Oct 28, 2014 / 5:00 am
After months of negotiations, talk breakdowns and little movement, CUPE Local 338 and the City of Kelowna have ratified a five-year collective agreement. “This historic five-year agreement provides fair compensation for employees while enhancing service and operational flexibility,” says Stu Leatherdale, Director of Human Resource & Corporate Performance. “The annual increases are in line with collective agreements of similar length reached by other smaller Okanagan municipalities and will help to ensure the City of Kelowna can attract and retain the diverse and skilled work force we’ll need over the next five years.” The agreement will take effect January 1, 2014 and ends December 31, 2018. “The new agreement balances the needs of CUPE Local 338 and the City of Kelowna,” says Lee Mossman, CUPE 338 President. “Our members’ vote of 95 per cent is a strong endorsement of an extended agreement that allows our members to continue take pride in delivering high quality municipal services that contribute to an excellent quality of life for our citizens.” The new deal will see an increase of two per cent in 2014, 1.5 per cent in 2015, 1.5 per cent in 2016, two per cent in 2017 and 1.5 per cent in 2018 for a total of 8.5 per cent over the five-year period. CUPE 338 consists of approximately 650 members representing about 75 per cent of the City of Kelowna’s workforce. CUPE members are responsible for delivering a number of services to citizens requiring expertise ranging from financial analysts to information technology to water quality to urban planning.
After months of negotiations, talk breakdowns and little movement, CUPE Local 338 and the City of Kelowna have ratified a five-year collective agreement. “This historic five-year agreement provides fair compensation for employees while enhancing service and operational flexibility,” says Stu Leatherdale, Director of Human Resource & Corporate Performance. “The annual increases are in line with collective agreements of similar length reached by other smaller Okanagan municipalities and will help to ensure the City of Kelowna can attract and retain the diverse and skilled work force we’ll need over the next five years.” The agreement will take effect January 1, 2014 and ends December 31, 2018. “The new agreement balances the needs of CUPE Local 338 and the City of Kelowna,” says Lee Mossman, CUPE 338 President. “Our members’ vote of 95 per cent is a strong endorsement of an extended agreement that allows our members to continue take pride in delivering high quality municipal services that contribute to an excellent quality of life for our citizens.” The new deal will see an increase of two per cent in 2014, 1.5 per cent in 2015, 1.5 per cent in 2016, two per cent in 2017 and 1.5 per cent in 2018 for a total of 8.5 per cent over the five-year period. CUPE 338 consists of approximately 650 members representing about 75 per cent of the City of Kelowna’s workforce. CUPE members are responsible for delivering a number of services to citizens requiring expertise ranging from financial analysts to information technology to water quality to urban planning.
Tuesday, October 07, 2014
Coldsteam And CUPE Reach A Deal
Written by Glen Morrison 107.5 KISSFM Tuesday, 07 October 2014 09:54
The District of Coldstream and members of CUPE Local 626 have ratified a five-year collective agreement. It's retroactive to January 1, 2014 running through December 31, 2018. The new agreement will see incremental wage increases of 8.5% over the term of the five-year agreement. The agreement also has small adjustments to existing benefits and improved language throughout..
The District of Coldstream and members of CUPE Local 626 have ratified a five-year collective agreement. It's retroactive to January 1, 2014 running through December 31, 2018. The new agreement will see incremental wage increases of 8.5% over the term of the five-year agreement. The agreement also has small adjustments to existing benefits and improved language throughout..
Thursday, September 25, 2014
City and union ratify new contract
By Staff Writer - Vernon Morning Star posted Sep 25, 2014 at 6:00 AM
A new deal has been inked between the City of Vernon and unionized workers. The collective agreement between the city and CUPE local 626 was ratified Wednesday after union members voted 88 per cent in favour of the conditions in the contract. “The union membership looks forward to working with the city to supply the best service possible to the residents of Vernon and area in the years ahead,” said Ken Juniper, CUPE 626 president. The term of the agreement is five years, from Jan. 1, 2014 to Dec. 31, 2018. The 244 city employees will see incremental wage increases, which total 8.5 per cent, staggered through the five-year term. "This agreement provides an excellent balance between the need for fair compensation for the CUPE members and their families and the need for the public to have certainty and long-term control of service-delivery costs to the community,” said Mayor Rob Sawatzky.
A new deal has been inked between the City of Vernon and unionized workers. The collective agreement between the city and CUPE local 626 was ratified Wednesday after union members voted 88 per cent in favour of the conditions in the contract. “The union membership looks forward to working with the city to supply the best service possible to the residents of Vernon and area in the years ahead,” said Ken Juniper, CUPE 626 president. The term of the agreement is five years, from Jan. 1, 2014 to Dec. 31, 2018. The 244 city employees will see incremental wage increases, which total 8.5 per cent, staggered through the five-year term. "This agreement provides an excellent balance between the need for fair compensation for the CUPE members and their families and the need for the public to have certainty and long-term control of service-delivery costs to the community,” said Mayor Rob Sawatzky.
Thursday, July 31, 2014
City, CUPE break off talks
by Wayne Moore CASTANET - Jul 30, 2014 / 5:00 pm
Contract talks between the City of Kelowna and its unionized CUPE workers have broken off. A note posted on the union's website says talks broke off after five days of mediation, earlier this month, failed to end with an agreement. "Talks were progressing but both sides were unable to agree on several key issues," the union says in the statement. "CUPE Local 338 Kelowna Civic Worker's bargaining committee will be meeting to strategize on how to proceed with bargaining and will look to continue negotiations with the City of Kelowna shortly thereafter. There are no immediate plans for job action at this time." Back on May 21, union members voted 94 per cent in favour of strike action to back contract demands. Neither side is stating publicly what issues remain outstanding or how far apart they are on those issues. CUPE workers have been without a contract since December 31 of last year. That agreement gave workers a 1.25% pay hike in 2010 and 2011 and a 1.5% boost in 2012 and 2013. It took more than a year to reach that agreement. Contracts were recently announced between CUPE workers and the City of Langley and the Powell River Regional District. Workers in those communities received 6.75% pay increases over four years and 8.5% over five years respectively.
Contract talks between the City of Kelowna and its unionized CUPE workers have broken off. A note posted on the union's website says talks broke off after five days of mediation, earlier this month, failed to end with an agreement. "Talks were progressing but both sides were unable to agree on several key issues," the union says in the statement. "CUPE Local 338 Kelowna Civic Worker's bargaining committee will be meeting to strategize on how to proceed with bargaining and will look to continue negotiations with the City of Kelowna shortly thereafter. There are no immediate plans for job action at this time." Back on May 21, union members voted 94 per cent in favour of strike action to back contract demands. Neither side is stating publicly what issues remain outstanding or how far apart they are on those issues. CUPE workers have been without a contract since December 31 of last year. That agreement gave workers a 1.25% pay hike in 2010 and 2011 and a 1.5% boost in 2012 and 2013. It took more than a year to reach that agreement. Contracts were recently announced between CUPE workers and the City of Langley and the Powell River Regional District. Workers in those communities received 6.75% pay increases over four years and 8.5% over five years respectively.
Thursday, March 27, 2014
Firefighters reach deal
by Wayne Moore |CASTANET- Mar 27, 2014 / 10:43 am
Firefighters and the City of Kamloops have finally come to terms on a new collective bargaining agreement. The four-year agreement, announced Thursday morning, replaces the previous contract which expired in December of 2010. The new deal between the City and IAFF, Local 913, expires at the end of this year. The contract provides for increases of 1.25% (effective Jan 1, 2011), 1.25% (effective July 1, 2011) and 0.5% (effective Jan 1, 2013). Wage increases for 2012, 2013, and 2014 shall be the average of the percentage increase agreed to by the majority of 15 Lower Mainland municipality IAFF Firefighter Agreements. There were a number of operational efficiencies and improvements negotiated in the Collective Agreement that helped to reduce contract costs. These negotiations included no benefit enhancements, an increase in the number of flex firefighters allowing for greater flexibility in job responsibilities and an improved uniform replacement system. The City of Kamloops and IAFF Local 913 were scheduled to proceed to arbitration in April to settle what would have likely been a one- or two-year term, which would have resulted in a Collective Agreement that would have remained two or more years in arrears. “I am very pleased that we were able to reach a settlement with our firefighters," says Kamloops Fire Chief Dale McLean . "This is a direct result of the positive working relationship established between Labour and Management. Everyone within Kamloops Fire Rescue has common goals and objectives in providing the best service possible. The negotiations and Collective Agreement outcomes clearly illustrate this commitment.” Kris Krutop, IAFF Local 913 President, says he was encouraged by the city's willingness to discuss the business objectively. "This agreement is a result of working in a collaborative fashion focusing on efficiencies and operational improvements to our service delivery. It was important to everyone that our service be as efficient as possible. Both parties worked diligently to analyze our business and to carefully consider the people that we proudly serve," says Krutop. “We’re pleased that an agreement has been reached and we look forward to a continued positive relationship providing excellent fire services in our community,” added Mayor Peter Milobar.
Firefighters and the City of Kamloops have finally come to terms on a new collective bargaining agreement. The four-year agreement, announced Thursday morning, replaces the previous contract which expired in December of 2010. The new deal between the City and IAFF, Local 913, expires at the end of this year. The contract provides for increases of 1.25% (effective Jan 1, 2011), 1.25% (effective July 1, 2011) and 0.5% (effective Jan 1, 2013). Wage increases for 2012, 2013, and 2014 shall be the average of the percentage increase agreed to by the majority of 15 Lower Mainland municipality IAFF Firefighter Agreements. There were a number of operational efficiencies and improvements negotiated in the Collective Agreement that helped to reduce contract costs. These negotiations included no benefit enhancements, an increase in the number of flex firefighters allowing for greater flexibility in job responsibilities and an improved uniform replacement system. The City of Kamloops and IAFF Local 913 were scheduled to proceed to arbitration in April to settle what would have likely been a one- or two-year term, which would have resulted in a Collective Agreement that would have remained two or more years in arrears. “I am very pleased that we were able to reach a settlement with our firefighters," says Kamloops Fire Chief Dale McLean . "This is a direct result of the positive working relationship established between Labour and Management. Everyone within Kamloops Fire Rescue has common goals and objectives in providing the best service possible. The negotiations and Collective Agreement outcomes clearly illustrate this commitment.” Kris Krutop, IAFF Local 913 President, says he was encouraged by the city's willingness to discuss the business objectively. "This agreement is a result of working in a collaborative fashion focusing on efficiencies and operational improvements to our service delivery. It was important to everyone that our service be as efficient as possible. Both parties worked diligently to analyze our business and to carefully consider the people that we proudly serve," says Krutop. “We’re pleased that an agreement has been reached and we look forward to a continued positive relationship providing excellent fire services in our community,” added Mayor Peter Milobar.
Thursday, January 16, 2014
Kamloops, CUPE agree on new contract
by Wayne Moore - CASTANET Jan 16, 2014 / 12:19 pm
The City of Kamloops and CUPE Local 900 have reached an agreement on a new five-year contract, with staff ratifying the new agreement with 74% support on Wednesday. Council approved the agreement in December. The new agreement, effective Jan. 1 of this year, will expire Dec. 31, 2018. It includes wage increases of 1.00 percent in the first year, 1.50 percent in the second year, 2.00 percent in the third year, 1.00 percent in the fourth year, and 2.00 percent in the last year of the contract. Contract language was also clarified and updated. The parties commenced bargaining in early October, with numerous meetings in the last several months. As with the previous contract, the negotiating teams were able to reach an agreement prior to the current contract's expiry on December 31, 2013.(more)
The City of Kamloops and CUPE Local 900 have reached an agreement on a new five-year contract, with staff ratifying the new agreement with 74% support on Wednesday. Council approved the agreement in December. The new agreement, effective Jan. 1 of this year, will expire Dec. 31, 2018. It includes wage increases of 1.00 percent in the first year, 1.50 percent in the second year, 2.00 percent in the third year, 1.00 percent in the fourth year, and 2.00 percent in the last year of the contract. Contract language was also clarified and updated. The parties commenced bargaining in early October, with numerous meetings in the last several months. As with the previous contract, the negotiating teams were able to reach an agreement prior to the current contract's expiry on December 31, 2013.(more)
Tuesday, December 10, 2013
CUPE Serves Strike Notice
By 250 News Monday, December 09, 2013 01:58 PM
Prince George, B.C.- For the first time in it's history with the City of Prince George, CUPE has served strike notice on the City.Locals 399 and 1048 have issued 72 hour strike notice and are preparing for job action."After months of negotiations the City is still refusing to adjust their mandate. This is our last option," said CUPE 399 president Gary Campbell. "Throughout this process the City has continuously disrespected front line workers while still being able to find funding for numerous new projects and for hiring new staff. City workers are extremely frustrated and while no one wants to go on strike we’re prepared to stand up for a fair and reasonable contract." In late November CUPE 399 and 1048 members overwhelmingly rejected the City’s last offer which provided no wage increases in the first two years of the contract. CUPE 1048 president Janet Bigelow said that essential service talks over the weekend showed that the City is still not prepared to work with the union to reach any agreement. "During both bargaining and essential service talks the city has remained focused on continuing this labour dispute rather than working towards reaching a fair and reasonable agreement," said Bigelow. "We have been attempting to work out essential services for months but the city has refused to engage in any meaningful discussions with the union." Bigelow said that since the union has now issued 72-hour notice the BC Labour Relations Board could issue an interim essential services designation until a final decision can be made and this would allow job action to occur without any delay.
Prince George, B.C.- For the first time in it's history with the City of Prince George, CUPE has served strike notice on the City.Locals 399 and 1048 have issued 72 hour strike notice and are preparing for job action."After months of negotiations the City is still refusing to adjust their mandate. This is our last option," said CUPE 399 president Gary Campbell. "Throughout this process the City has continuously disrespected front line workers while still being able to find funding for numerous new projects and for hiring new staff. City workers are extremely frustrated and while no one wants to go on strike we’re prepared to stand up for a fair and reasonable contract." In late November CUPE 399 and 1048 members overwhelmingly rejected the City’s last offer which provided no wage increases in the first two years of the contract. CUPE 1048 president Janet Bigelow said that essential service talks over the weekend showed that the City is still not prepared to work with the union to reach any agreement. "During both bargaining and essential service talks the city has remained focused on continuing this labour dispute rather than working towards reaching a fair and reasonable agreement," said Bigelow. "We have been attempting to work out essential services for months but the city has refused to engage in any meaningful discussions with the union." Bigelow said that since the union has now issued 72-hour notice the BC Labour Relations Board could issue an interim essential services designation until a final decision can be made and this would allow job action to occur without any delay.
Thursday, September 19, 2013
Strike Averted: Tentative deal reached for CUPE public school workers
A tentative two-year contract has been reached between the BC Public School Employers' Association and CUPE BC, effectively halting a strike of 33,000 unionized public school staff in the province. On Tuesday, teachers had been told (by CUPE members) to expect a strike as early as Monday. CUPE BC represents 27,000 of the set-to-strike workers. The new deal provides union members a 3.5 per cent wage increase over the two years of the contract – one per cent on July 1, 2013 (retroactive), two per cent on Feb. 1, 2014, and 0.5 per cent on May 1, 2014. The deal – which would begin on July 1, 2012 – is set to expire on June 30, 2014. "CUPE BC's 27,000 education workers are vital to keeping our schools clean, safe and inclusive," said CUPE BC president Mark Hancock, in a statement. "I want to thank all 85,000 of our members across the province, and our K-12 members in particular, for their solidarity. It's only because we held together that we were able to negotiate a fair and reasonable contract, despite demands for concessions from the government." "I would also like to thank the BC Teachers' Federation for their unwavering commitment to public education in our province and for their strong support during these difficult negotiations."
Tuesday, March 05, 2013
Labour Peace At Okanagan College
Written by Glen Morrison Tuesday, 05 March 2013 06:02
Three more support staff agreements have been reached with the BCGEU. They include Okanagan College, BCIT and Kwantlen Polytechnic University. In all some two thousand staff are affected, the package is a four year one, holding to net zero in the first two years. The rest have four staged increases of one per cent over the third and fourth years. The workers include information technology, instructional assistants, administration and lab support workers, as well as library technicians, facilities and other services that support students and the institutions.
Three more support staff agreements have been reached with the BCGEU. They include Okanagan College, BCIT and Kwantlen Polytechnic University. In all some two thousand staff are affected, the package is a four year one, holding to net zero in the first two years. The rest have four staged increases of one per cent over the third and fourth years. The workers include information technology, instructional assistants, administration and lab support workers, as well as library technicians, facilities and other services that support students and the institutions.
Wednesday, September 05, 2012
CUPE Deal With Spallumcheen
Written by Glen Morrison 107.5 KISSFM Wednesday, 05 September 2012 15:55
There's labour peace at the Spallumcheen municipal office. Mayor Janice Brown says they've ratified a new three year deal with their CUPE staff. The deal, retroactive to the start of the year gives 2 percent this year, benefit improvements next year, and two percent in 2014. "We feel it was a fair offer with the economy the way it is." Brown says the nine employees would have had 2 percent in each year, but chose the benefits instead. The negotiations had been going on since December.
 |
| Janice Brown, Spallumcheen Mayor |
Saturday, June 23, 2012
Negotiations between government and the BCGEU
VICTORIA— Finance Minister Kevin Falcon issued the following statement on the status of
negotiations with the B.C. Government Service Employees’ Union:
“I am disappointed the BCGEU
rejected a fair offer that would have provided a wage increase during worsening
economic times.
“Through our co-operative gains
mandate we were able to offer the following:
·
A two
per cent wage increase effective July 1, 2012.
·
A 1.5
per cent wage increase on July 1, 2013.
·
Renewal
of the MOU on Employment Security for the term of the agreement.
·
Renewal
of all existing temporary market adjustments.
·
Modest
increases to some allowances in both years of the contract.
“There are only four other ways to
fund a wage increase: raising British Columbians’ taxes, increasing the deficit
and passing on debt to our children, cutting programs and services that people
depend on, and reducing the size of our workforce through layoffs. “We are experiencing unpredictable
economic circumstances around the world. Despite this uncertainty, we have been
committed to finding savings that can fund a modest wage increase for
employees.
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
City Workers Get New Deal
Thursday, June 23, 2011
More Pickets in Vernon Finning employees on strike
More labour trouble. About 700 employees at Finning International are on strike in British Columbia. They include mechanics, parts department staff and support personnel who deal with heavy equipment for mining, forestry, and construction. The company says equipment and parts sales will continue, but shop and field services will be unavailable. Finning says it has applied for mediation and that the union has declined. The union says the dispute is over wages, benefits, shifts, and sub-contracting. Vancouver-based Finning is the world's largest Caterpillar dealer, and sells, rents and services equipment and engines. It has operations in Canada, South America and Europe. The Vernon office is on Kal Lake road.
Saturday, April 09, 2011
Vancouver police officers to get almost 9 per cent wage hike in new contract
VANCOUVER— The Canadian Press Published
Mike Klassen in City Focus Apr. 9 City Hall quietly announces 9% VPD salary increase on a Friday
How long until the cupboard for municipal salaries is completely bare? It was another "take out the trash Friday" news bulletin that caused barely a ripple in local media. The only news we've been able to locate on this are a lone Canadian Press clipping that has been recirculated by a few media outlets. It's no larger than a letter to the editor on the Vancouver Sun website. For Vancouver taxpayers it could be an ominous sign that Canada's least affordable city is going to stay that way for some time.
Currently Vancouver police members earn at or slightly higher than the average for Canadian cities. The decision to give the nearly 9% wage increase, which was approved by Vancouver city council, was that other City workers over the past 2 years have received increases. Of course, what they're referring to is the 5-year deal signed in 2007 that resulted in a nearly 18% increase in pay for thousands of staff.
For those who are not familiar with the expression "whipsawing" as it is used in the context of modern labour negotiations, it means that one union uses another union's settlement as a starting point from which another deal can be reached. The City was essentially convinced by the police union that since their 3-year deal expired before other workers' five-year agreement, they deserved the extra two years plus another. (more)
Police officers in Vancouver have ratified a new, three-year contract with wage hikes of just under 9 per cent over the life of the deal. Vancouver city council, which oversees the city's police board, has also approved the terms. The 33-month deal for 1,470 officers, jail guards and special constables is retroactive to April 1, 2010 and expires on Dec. 31, next year. It contains wage hikes of 2.95 per cent in the first two years and an increase of 2.55 per cent in the final year. A release issued by the police board says the contract is similar to settlements achieved by other major Canadian police departments such as the York Regional Police Service in Ontario. Mayor Gregor Robertson, who is chairman of the police board, says he's pleased the two sides reached an agreement that respects taxpayers as well as the hard work performed daily by members of the police department.
----------------------- Mike Klassen in City Focus Apr. 9 City Hall quietly announces 9% VPD salary increase on a Friday
How long until the cupboard for municipal salaries is completely bare? It was another "take out the trash Friday" news bulletin that caused barely a ripple in local media. The only news we've been able to locate on this are a lone Canadian Press clipping that has been recirculated by a few media outlets. It's no larger than a letter to the editor on the Vancouver Sun website. For Vancouver taxpayers it could be an ominous sign that Canada's least affordable city is going to stay that way for some time.
Currently Vancouver police members earn at or slightly higher than the average for Canadian cities. The decision to give the nearly 9% wage increase, which was approved by Vancouver city council, was that other City workers over the past 2 years have received increases. Of course, what they're referring to is the 5-year deal signed in 2007 that resulted in a nearly 18% increase in pay for thousands of staff.
For those who are not familiar with the expression "whipsawing" as it is used in the context of modern labour negotiations, it means that one union uses another union's settlement as a starting point from which another deal can be reached. The City was essentially convinced by the police union that since their 3-year deal expired before other workers' five-year agreement, they deserved the extra two years plus another. (more)
Thursday, October 07, 2010
Summerland settles with employees
There will be labour peace within Summerland City Hall for the next three years.The municipality and its civic employees, members of CUPE 1136, have ratified a new three year collective agreement. The new deal will expire December 31, 2012. In a news release issued Thursday, the municipality says the agreement provides for a 1.5% increase in 2011 and 1.75% in 2012. There is no pay increase in 2010.
It also gives cost saving measures and more operational and management flexibility for the employer. "We wanted an agreement that would be fair to our employees and recognize their value in providing services to the community while being mindful of the state of the local economy and the taxpayer's ability to pay," says Summerland Mayor, Janice Perrino. "We believe we have achieved that objective." CUPE Vice-President, David Scott, says the agreement shows the pride union members take in working for the municipality. "We work in Summerland and care about the community and the services we provide to the residents and visitors," says Scott. The previous contract expired at the end of last year. Negotiations on a new deal began in April. The new contract also contains many housekeeping items which improve the language and administration of the agreement.
It also gives cost saving measures and more operational and management flexibility for the employer. "We wanted an agreement that would be fair to our employees and recognize their value in providing services to the community while being mindful of the state of the local economy and the taxpayer's ability to pay," says Summerland Mayor, Janice Perrino. "We believe we have achieved that objective." CUPE Vice-President, David Scott, says the agreement shows the pride union members take in working for the municipality. "We work in Summerland and care about the community and the services we provide to the residents and visitors," says Scott. The previous contract expired at the end of last year. Negotiations on a new deal began in April. The new contract also contains many housekeeping items which improve the language and administration of the agreement.
Friday, July 24, 2009
Windsor, Ont., civic strike ends
CBC News:
About 1,800 striking civic workers in Windsor, Ont., voted in favour of a tentative deal with the city on Friday to end a 101-day job action that brought garbage collection and other services to a standstill.Although it did not release exact results, CUPE announced its members voted overwhelmingly in favour of the four-year agreement, which boosts wages by 6.3 per cent over the span of the agreement.Negotiators for CUPE's two local unions reached the tentative deal early Thursday after more than 46 hours of bargaining. The union said it would not be recommending workers accept or reject the deal.CUPE gave up on the contentious issue of post-retirement benefits for newly hired workers and in return agreed to wage increases and lump sum payments. New employees will be able to opt in to a self-funded benefits program, CUPE said.
About 1,800 striking civic workers in Windsor, Ont., voted in favour of a tentative deal with the city on Friday to end a 101-day job action that brought garbage collection and other services to a standstill.Although it did not release exact results, CUPE announced its members voted overwhelmingly in favour of the four-year agreement, which boosts wages by 6.3 per cent over the span of the agreement.Negotiators for CUPE's two local unions reached the tentative deal early Thursday after more than 46 hours of bargaining. The union said it would not be recommending workers accept or reject the deal.CUPE gave up on the contentious issue of post-retirement benefits for newly hired workers and in return agreed to wage increases and lump sum payments. New employees will be able to opt in to a self-funded benefits program, CUPE said.
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
Vancouver municipal outside workers serve 72-hour strike notice
By The Canadian Press Wednesday, July 11, 2007 Daily Courier
VANCOUVER (CP) - Vancouver’s outside workers have served the city with 72-hour strike notice.The city says its second-largest union, CUPE 1004, could take job action as early as 4 p.m. on Friday. The union represents about 1,800 employees responsible for everything from garbage pick-up to park maintenance but the city says in a news release.City spokesman Jerry Dobrovolny says officials are disappointed the union has put the city and its residents in this position.Dobrovolny says the city has met with the union eight times to discuss contract issues and made a comprehensive settlement offer.He says the city still has room to negotiate."We’ve worked hard to avoid a strike and we’re anxious for the union to come back to the table," Dobrovolny said in the city’s news release Tuesday.Vancouver and several of its suburbs are in a tense round of contract talks with their unionized workers.Some 9,000 civic workers in the Greater Vancouver Regional District now are ready to strike.
Employees in Delta, members of Cupe local 454 and the Delta Police Board, rejected a proposed contract Monday that would have expired immediately after the 2010 Olympics.They worry future contracts will be stripped as the region copes with huge bills following the Games.On Monday, Vancouver asked the B.C. Labour Relations Board to conduct a "last offer vote" to the 3,500 employees of its largest union, CUPE 15.The city said that in the event of job action, plans will be in place to provide essential services to protect the health and safety of residents.
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Don Quixote Note: Anyone else wonder why the media hasn't reported on the status of the City of Vernon's Contract with THE VERNON CIVIC EMPLOYEES’ UNION LOCAL 626 that expired on Dec. 31, 2006. Current employment opportunities on the City's website are advertising the rates from this expired contract so maybe it was simply extended? Hopefully any wage and benefits adjustments have been conservatively provided for in this years budget? The City's financials statements have not yet been released, backing up the City's Annual Report that was due for Public Input by the statutory deadline of June 30 so it appears that one can not be too optimistic of an end to the Labor Bargaining sessions either.
VANCOUVER (CP) - Vancouver’s outside workers have served the city with 72-hour strike notice.The city says its second-largest union, CUPE 1004, could take job action as early as 4 p.m. on Friday. The union represents about 1,800 employees responsible for everything from garbage pick-up to park maintenance but the city says in a news release.City spokesman Jerry Dobrovolny says officials are disappointed the union has put the city and its residents in this position.Dobrovolny says the city has met with the union eight times to discuss contract issues and made a comprehensive settlement offer.He says the city still has room to negotiate."We’ve worked hard to avoid a strike and we’re anxious for the union to come back to the table," Dobrovolny said in the city’s news release Tuesday.Vancouver and several of its suburbs are in a tense round of contract talks with their unionized workers.Some 9,000 civic workers in the Greater Vancouver Regional District now are ready to strike.
Employees in Delta, members of Cupe local 454 and the Delta Police Board, rejected a proposed contract Monday that would have expired immediately after the 2010 Olympics.They worry future contracts will be stripped as the region copes with huge bills following the Games.On Monday, Vancouver asked the B.C. Labour Relations Board to conduct a "last offer vote" to the 3,500 employees of its largest union, CUPE 15.The city said that in the event of job action, plans will be in place to provide essential services to protect the health and safety of residents.
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Don Quixote Note: Anyone else wonder why the media hasn't reported on the status of the City of Vernon's Contract with THE VERNON CIVIC EMPLOYEES’ UNION LOCAL 626 that expired on Dec. 31, 2006. Current employment opportunities on the City's website are advertising the rates from this expired contract so maybe it was simply extended? Hopefully any wage and benefits adjustments have been conservatively provided for in this years budget? The City's financials statements have not yet been released, backing up the City's Annual Report that was due for Public Input by the statutory deadline of June 30 so it appears that one can not be too optimistic of an end to the Labor Bargaining sessions either.
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