Support Workers Expand Withdrawal of Service
For Immediate Release, April 3, 2018
Saskatoon – As of April 5, 2018 at 6 pm, Support Workers at Elmwood Group Homes (EGH) will be expanding their withdrawal of services. SEIU-West members will not be picking up, receiving, or putting away groceries, milk, and any and all other supplies, nor will they accept the relocation of scheduled shifts between EGH group homes in Saskatoon.
“A further withdrawal of services by our members is their way of conveying to the employer that they are serious about wanting to resolve this bargaining impasse,” said Barb Cape, President of SEIU-West. “The withdrawal of transportation services will remain in effect.”
Since February 16, 2018, EGH Support Workers have been exercising their legal right to take strike action against their employer.
“We continue to communicate with the employer in the hopes of getting back to the bargaining table,” added Cape. “The employer seems to be entrenched in the position with no willingness to move on the key issue of wages.”
The Employer’s application to the Labour Relations Board was heard on February 27, 2018. The Board decision was to dismiss the application for interim relief and set dates for a full hearing on the issue of whether essential services provisions of The Saskatchewan Employment Act apply in the circumstances. The hearing will continue on April 25th, 26th, and 27th. In their decision to deny the Employer’s request for interim relief the Board stated that the Employer had failed to demonstrate that the strike activity had endangered the residents.
“Our members want the public to know that they are committed to the residents and their wellbeing. We want to see this same commitment from their employer to our members and the work they do.” continued Cape. “They want to thank everyone who has supported their fight for fairness.”
SEIU-West represents more than 13,000 working people in the province of Saskatchewan. They include members who work in health care, education, municipalities, community-based organizations, retirement homes and other sectors. They are joined by one colour – purple – and one union – SEIU-West. Purple works in our communities! Visit www.PurpleWorks.ca to find out more about the members of SEIU-West.
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For more information, contact:
Christine Miller, Communications Coordinator
Phone: 306-652-1011 ext. 8733
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