We are so glad to share that we have reached a tentative agreement for CUPE school support staff across Nova Scotia! This is both at the common table and at all eight local tables!
These have been some long days on what has already been a long road—for all of us. But we came motivated, and we came prepared to accomplish a good deal for all 5,000 of us.
On Wednesday, all eight local presidents came together in Dartmouth for the second conciliation meeting for our common table negotiations. Nelson Scott, Chair of Council, along with our CUPE representatives, met with representatives of the EECD and our employers. Negotiations concluded around 2AM Thursday morning, continued throughout the day and again, went close to midnight, and then continued today.
There were some tense moments, tough conversations, and lots of talk about job action. But we were committed to achieving what members have said they need—and committed to solidarity amongst all school support staff.
It was all of us on Council sitting at a hotel conference room in Dartmouth late into the night, and it was all of us in every single public school in this province, wanting better for school support staff, and wanting more for Nova Scotia.
And together, we were able to find common ground with the employer and together negotiated a deal that we unanimously and enthusiastically recommend to our members. We know everyone will be anxious for the details, but please continue to be patient as more information is on its way along with plans for the ratification process. Please continue to check your emails for updates on your local ratification votes.
Chair of Council, Nelson Scott, and all members of Council would like to thank all parties involved for the time and effort that went into this round of bargaining. And of course, our thanks to our fellow members for your support, your dedication, and your solidarity!
Nelson Scott (Local 5050), Andrew Weaver (Local 964), Kevin Carther (Local 3876), Gerrard Matthews (Local 955), Jenny-Lynn Wardrope (Local 3890), Robert Amero (Local 2272), Jennifer Cox (Local 4682), Shelley McNeil (Local 5047) and Robert Mackay, Communications Officer
Nova Scotia School Board Council of Unions