CUPE Nova Scotia calls for consultation and balanced approach to implementation of vaccine mandate

The union representing more than 11,000 health care workers and 4,800 education support workers in Nova Scotia is calling on the provincial government and employers to take a balanced approach to implementing the COVID-19 vaccine mandate, announced today by Premier Tim Houston and Dr. Robert Strang. “CUPE has always placed a priority on our members’ health and safety. Our members have the right to be safe at work, and people have the right to receive public services in a safe environment,” says CUPE Nova Scotia President Nan McFadgen. “The government has decided that a vaccine mandate is necessary, but it will be difficult, and we’ve asked our locals to reach out to employers to let them know that the union expects to be consulted ahead of time,” says McFadgen. “Employers are required to provide reasonable accommodations for employees who cannot be vaccinated for medical or religious reasons.” “Aside from protected … Read more…

Web banner. Text: Bargaining update, CUPE 759, Proud to deliver quality public services in the Cape Breton Regional Municipality. Images: photo strip with four photos of members on the job (heavy equipment operator, driving a truck with CBRM written on the side, snow shovelling, and driving a snow plow on a sidewalk).

Union applies for conciliation in negotiations with Cape Breton Regional Municipality

Upon the request of the union, a conciliation officer has been appointed by the Nova Scotia Department of Labour and Advanced Education to assist with negotiations between the members of CUPE 759 and their employer, Cape Breton Regional Municipality (CBRM). CUPE National Representative Kathy MacLeod says, “Negotiations reached an impasse last week and we filed for conciliation on September 18th. At this time, no dates have been set for conciliation.” “We hope that the assistance of a conciliator will help to reach an agreement,” said Kevin Ivey, president of CUPE 759, representing outside municipal workers. “It’s not just a monetary issue. There are a number of outstanding issues that need to be addressed such as ensuring both parents have access to parental leave and improvements to grievance procedure language.” The union’s collective agreement expired on October 31, 2020. The Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) Local 759 represents approximately 330 … Read more…