Representatives of the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) Local 2330 say they are left with no choice, but to file for conciliation after learning on July 7 that Summer Street Industries, in New Glasgow, intends to ignore a settlement that was negotiated with the Nova Scotia provincial government.
Summer Street, an organization that provides programs and services to adults with intellectual disabilities, receives all of its funding from the Province. Funding related issues for the new contract, for over 30 staff, was negotiated at the lead table during collective bargaining.
CUPE National Representative Peter Baxter feels this is a careless decision by the board of directors. “Apparently, Summer Street directors feel they are not beholden to their funder, the Province, and are willing to risk a disruption to programs and services,” says Baxter.
“They are defying a two-decades long protocol accepted between CUPE and government for the purpose of bargaining on provincially funded common issues,” adds Baxter. “It’s unfortunate that it has come to this. If the employer would only abide by the terms of the new contract, we would not be in this predicament.”
“It’s time for Summer Street management to show respect for both their staff and government,” says Baxter.