Nearly 1,200 municipal workers in Brampton may go on strike if negotiations between their union and city hall fail to produce an agreement, according to the union president.
The collective bargaining agreement between the City of Brampton and the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) Local 831 expired months ago. In response, the union held a vote, resulting in a decisive 97% of members voting in favor of strike action if conciliation efforts do not succeed.
Union president Fabio Gazzola stated that the vote reflects the members’ dissatisfaction with the city’s latest proposal. “It is clear that our members feel the city’s last proposal is unsatisfactory and does not reflect standards and benefits of non-union staff,” Gazzola said in a statement to INsauga.com.
The city has acknowledged the union’s request for a conciliator, who has been appointed by Ontario’s Labour Ministry, with dates for further discussions yet to be determined.
“We value our employees and recognize the important work they do every day to deliver critical services to the residents of Brampton,” the city stated. “Bargaining is ongoing, and the City remains committed to negotiating in good faith and reaching a fair deal.”
Gazzola emphasized CUPE 831’s dedication to securing a fair and equitable contract that addresses the needs of its members. “This contract needs to respect and value the contributions members make to the residents of Brampton on a daily basis,” he said.
CUPE 831 represents almost 1,200 workers across various departments, including Community Services, Public Works and Engineering, and Planning, Building, and Economic Development.
The city expressed its focus on finding a resolution that benefits both employees and the community, aligning with standards in nearby municipalities.