Optima Living: Bargaining Moves Forward
Our Bargaining Committee met with the Company from October 1st to 3rd. We continued discussions, made proposal exchanges and agreed on a few more items for Optima Living members:
- A forty-eight (48) hour grace period for picking up additional shifts
- A commitment from both the Employer and the Union on a safe, respectful and inclusive workplace against discrimination, bullying, harassment and workplace violence
- The Employer to conduct regular reviews of its policies on discrimination, harassment and violence prevention
- The Employer to support and encourage upgrading of skills and knowledge through formal and informal education
- Any compulsory in-service sessions will be conducted with pay
Both parties are currently negotiating contract language which will ensure that enrolment into RRSPs is easier, and that member requests for time off are more efficient. The Union proposed paid meal breaks, and we will begin deeper conversations on monetary proposals starting November 8th.
“It’s good to see the employer at your workplace agree on fundamental conditions such as workplace safety and freedom from discrimination,” says President Thomas Hesse of UFCW Local 401. “These should be no-brainers. We remain very interested to see whether they will follow this with the kind of pay proposals that will address members’ needs during the affordability crisis. Simply put, workers need a substantial raise.”
“Committing to a safe, fair and respectful workplace is the bare minimum any employer should do,” agrees Secretary-Treasurer Richelle Stewart. “Your Bargaining Committee will be paying close attention to whether the company offers a fair raise for their employees, and will be working at all times to secure the best deal possible.”
Stay tuned for further updates as the process continues!
Posted on: October 16,2024