Date: February 15, 2022
Greetings Sisters and Brothers,
Monetary proposals remain outstanding. On December 17, 2021, a comprehensive package to conclude bargaining was tabled with the employer, which contained improvements to wages and benefits, paid leaves (e.g. sick leave) and a wage schedule with three steps for each job classification. We indicated to the employer that if we are unable to reach an agreement, our next practical course was to apply to the Saskatchewan Labor Relations Board for first collective agreement bargaining assistance. The Employer is to respond.
Due to full schedules and the ongoing COVID-19 responsibilities of the Employer, the next dates scheduled for bargaining were February 9 and 10, 2022; and March 10 and 11, 2022. These dates were cancelled with little notice during the first week of February due to the pending sale of Extendicare’s Esprit holdings to Sienna-Sabre LP. This sale should not affect the Union’s right to continue to negotiate on your behalf. The Saskatchewan Employment Act sets out the new employer’s obligations with respect to successorship, their obligation to recognize the Union, and to continue to bargain in good faith.
Your bargaining committee believes that the parties will able to reach a tentative agreement that we can bring out to you all with a positive recommendation. Shailini Pascua, your bargaining Committee member, will be asking you all when you would like to have a membership meeting.
Your bargaining committee thanks you for the support you all have shown us. As members of SEIU-West, it is your right to get the best deal possible. Your committee demands a fair and reasonable agreement for front line personal care workers—you deserve it. Your support for us gives us the power to demand the Employer do better.
Please continue to check out your Union Bulletin Board, or seiuwest.ca for further updates. If you have any questions about your workplace, please contact the Member Resource Centre (MRC) at 1-888-999-7348 ex. 2298, or by email at [email protected]. The MRC Officers will be able to assist you or will refer your question if necessary.
Your participation in your Union makes your Union strong!
In Solidarity,
Your SEIU-West Riverbend Crossing Bargaining Committee
Shailini Pascua (Unit Chair) • Staff: Lynette Pinfold (Union Representative) • Katelyn Thibeault (Union Representative) • Larry Buchinski (Southern Negotiations Officer)