Kenora city workers overwhelmingly reject “final” offer – Christmas lockout looms

KENORA, ON –/COMMUNITYWIRE/– Members of CUPE Local 191 have overwhelmingly rejected the City of Kenora’s attempt to force a “final offer” on them through an Ontario Labour Relations Board-supervised vote. Over 80% of members rejected this offer, with 97% of members voting.

In addition to the aggressive attempt to divide members with a supervised vote, the City also triggered a countdown to a strike or lockout, with a deadline of December 26^th, 12:01 a.m.

“Our members have sent the City a pretty clear message here,” said Curtis Leroux, President of CUPE Local 191. “The City thought our members would sell out each other’s working conditions in exchange for wages, and this attempt to divide us completely failed.”

CUPE Local 191 has filed an unfair labour practice complaint with the Ontario Labour Relations Board, alleging bargaining in bad faith.

“Notwithstanding the City’s divisive approach throughout this round of negotiations, we are inviting them back to the table tomorrow, Friday, and we are prepared to keep working toward the compromise that will yield a settlement,” said Leroux. “I hope the Mayor and Council understand it’s time to equip their team with instructions to bargain a fair deal. What could be more important than getting this done before Christmas?”

If locked out, more than 100 workers would be off the job on Boxing Day morning.

Listen to the union’s radio ad at www.cupe.ca/kenora-scrooge

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For more information:

Adam Coones, CUPE National Representative (in Kenora), 705-768-8782
Andrea Addario, CUPE National Communications, 416-738-4329