On October 5, 2012, the employer served us notice to bargain. Since we first met with the employer on Nov. 14 that is exactly what we have been doing.
On Dec. 11, the government served us notice they were filing for conciliation, despite the fact that we are not at an impasse. Conciliation is when a mediator comes to the bargaining table to try and move both sides to an agreement. We are not sure why they are filing since we have been meeting regularly with them and have even reached some agreements. They have also advised that they intend to commence Essential and Emergency Services negotiations on Jan. 2, 2013.
However, after tabling a “takeaway” document on Dec. 11 the employer advised us that we had to withdraw all union proposals that they have not responded to and only talk about their items. The numerous items the employer is refusing to look at are of great importance to our bargaining unit, dealing with the chronic and systemic health and safety issues that affect our members. Our full tabled document is on the website, as well as the employer’s document. Corrections Union Position November 14 Corrections Employer Position November 14 Employer Request for Conciliation
So how can we bargain if they won’t discuss any of our issues? This just proves that the Liberals don’t want us to bargain an agreement…they want to impose a contract..
What happens at the table now? A mediator will come to the bargaining centre and work with the parties and attempt to facilitate an agreement on outstanding bargaining issues.
On Nov. 14 the employer raised the issue of a “Corrections Only” collective agreement. In a flippant manner, the employer said that since Corrections had tabled so many Central-related items that perhaps we should have our own separate collective agreement. On Dec. 6, while exchanging documents, the employer asked if we were interested in having our own collective agreement. The union responded that before discussing such a significant issue, we needed to see their proposal in writing in order to assess legalities, practicalities and, of course, the price tag.
On Dec. 11 the employer handed us their proposal, and advised us that if we want our own agreement we had to withdraw all of our remaining proposals and accept substantial takeaways. This position is not acceptable to the bargaining team and we are seeking legal advice. Corrections employer Letter – Separate Collective Agreement Corrections Union Response – Separate Collective Agreement
The goal of your Corrections Team remains as it was before. We are committed to negotiating a fair and equitable contract and will continue to fight for the members.
In Solidarity
The OPS Corrections Bargaining Team