Vancouver rejects striking workers counter-offer
Local 15 of the Canadian Union of Public Employees, which represents inside workers, made its counter-offer Monday.
In the letter, obtained by radio station CKNW, Ms. Rogers says she is “concerned that personal and political attacks are increasingly dominating CUPE’s public commentary†and that CUPE’s counter-offer is “unacceptable.â€
In a statement posted on Vancouver’s website, the city said the two sides are far apart on a number of difficult issues, including a no layoff clause, the Olympic partnership agreement guaranteeing no disruptions during the 2010 Winter Games, seniority versus merit and whistle-blower and harassment policies.
The city suggested a private meeting between key members of the city’s and CUPE 15’s bargaining teams to talk about how to proceed.
Meanwhile, the union and the Vancouver School Board have come to an agreement to keep open five schools that have public libraries or community centres attached to them when classes resume next week.
The school board went to the B.C. Labour Relations Board Friday seeking an order that would ensure picketing kept school entrances clear.
But late Friday the school board and CUPE locals 15 and 391 issued a joint statement promising schools would open as usual Tuesday.
“We are very pleased with the prompt and responsible reaction by CUPE to resolve our concerns,†school board chairman Ken Denike said.
“We did not want to cause parents and students any unnecessary anxiety,†added Graeme Moore, staff representative for CUPE Local 15. “It is important to our members, many of whom have school-age children themselves, to ensure that all students have a successful start to the school year.â€
