Summers throws away the keys to a deal at BACLA and CLNG

Brockville – Over 100 developmental service workers represented by OPSEU Local 441 are sounding the alarm over the rejection of an immediate pathway to resolution at the Brockville Area Community Living Association (BACLA).

Over the weekend the bargaining team proposed a mediation-arbitration process that would have had the parties first try to mediate the dispute between them with a nationally recognized mediator. Failing resolution, the parties would then refer all outstanding matters to arbitration. Based on the availability of the mediator the union proposed, the dispute could have been resolved as early as this Friday July 31st.

“Unfortunately, instead of putting the people supported by BACLA first and working towards an immediate end to this strike, our executive director has chosen to ignore the commonsense approach floated by the union. The parties remain far apart on several important issues at the bargaining table and need the finality of a mediation-arbitration process, assisted by one of Canada’s best dispute resolution experts” Said the OPSEU Local 441 bargaining team

The workers at BACLA share their Executive Director, management team and entire Board of Directors with Community Living North Grenville. The workers at that agency, represented by OPSEU Local 434 recently undertook a strike vote and are inching closer to a legal strike. Sandra could have the dubious honor of being the first executive director in Canadian History to lead to two separate agencies to a strike at the same time.

The Union bargaining team at BACLA is hosting a family town hall this Thursday July 30th so families can hear directly from members on issues that remain unresolved during this bargaining impasse.