Ontario Construction News staff writer
The union representing almost 4,000 striking workers at the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) says it has reached a tentative deal, ending a six-week walkout.
The Ontario Compensation Employees Union (OCEU/CUPE 1750) says its members have voted to accept the tentative collective agreement negotiated by their bargaining committee.
However, the union “remains concerned about the ongoing anti-union measures being pursued by the Ford Government and will remain vigilant in defending workers’ rights and fair bargaining processes,” according to a statement.
“I am proud of my coworkers and the strength of our union, we are a critical safety net for Ontario workers and Ontarians spoke up, sending thousands of messages to the WSIB leadership,” union local president Harry Goslin said in a statement. “Together, we were able to secure the best possible outcome and successfully pushed back against the employer’s attacks on union seniority rights.”
This strike was a historic moment for our union and the broader labour movement. We thank our members for their unwavering commitment and courage, the public for their understanding, and our fellow unions for their solidarity and support throughout this challenging fight.
As members prepared to return to work on Monday (July 7) the union said in the statement it remains steadfast in its commitment to protect workers’ rights and health.
“OCEU/CUPE 1750 will continue to stand in solidarity with other public sector unions currently negotiating collective agreements,” Goslin said. “The union remains concerned about the ongoing anti-union measures being pursued by the Ford Government and will remain vigilant in defending workers’ rights and fair bargaining processes.”