CUPE 3004 members in the District of Elkford have voted overwhelmingly in favour of strike action.

CUPE 3004 president Tanis Haugo reported that the strong strike mandate sends a message to the employer that employees are frustrated and aren’t feeling respected.

“CUPE 3004 members have given our bargaining committee a strong and unified message to go back to the table to negotiate a deal that is fair and reasonable,” says Haugo. “Our members not only work for the District of Elkford, but are also active citizens in this community.”

Negotiations broke down earlier this month; however, bargaining dates have been arranged into October. Haugo says that the local is hopeful that the employer will come back to the table ready to bargain a fair and reasonable agreement.

Workers have been without a contract since February 29. Outstanding issues include cost of living wage increases, length of the agreement, benefits and scheduling issues.

Elkford Mayor Dean McKerracher is taking the union’s move in stride, believing the district has an excellent staff.

“We are pleased they want to return to the bargaining table. I am confident an agreement can be worked out,” he told e-KNOW.

According to a CUPE3004 press release, the 39 municipal workers it represents at the District of Elkford provide quality public services as inside and outside workers in the community.

Members of CUPE 3004 are employed at the Elkford Community Conference Centre, Aquatic Centre, Recreation Centre, Public Works, District Office and Fire Hall. A wide array of services are provided by these employees, including, but not limited to, garbage collection, water and sewage treatment, roads maintenance, administrative and financial services, tourism, programming, swim lessons, boat licensing, arena and facility maintenance, and parks and playgrounds.

Ian Cobb/e-KNOW

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