Talks have broken off between outside workers at the Halifax Regional Municipality and their employer. After 18 days of bargaining, including two days of conciliation, the members of the Canadian Union of Public Employees Local 108 voted overwhelmingly in favour of job action on Friday, February 21. The local has been without a contract since October of 2017. CUPE National Representative Todd MacPherson says it has been a long, tough road and the union’s bargaining committee is frustrated with the employer’s lack of respect for the workers. “The employer has not been willing to address the members’ concerns over employment equity and wages,” MacPherson says. “There are still barriers in place that prevent equal access to employment and advancement for all persons, that should not exist in 2020.” MacPherson adds that the employer is asking for changes to sick time but the union is standing firm.  “CUPE 108 will not … Read more…