City of Thunder Bay Homes for the Aged

On December 11th 2008, bargaining for the three (3) City Homes for the Aged concluded after 18 months of ongoing bargaining. One of the major reasons for the duration of bargaining directly related to the Corporation requiring assurances from the Ministry of Health and Long Term Care. The latter dealt with the issue of funding for the two homes Dawson Court and Grandview Lodge, which the City has divested as of January 1st 2009.

CAW Local 229 is pleased to announce a new three (3) year deal that will allow the workers in these facilities to receive numerous significant gains. A priority during negotiations was a closure agreement for workers displaced from Dawson Court and Grandview Lodge. This will occur when the new Centre of Excellence is completed which will fall under the umbrella of St Joseph’s Care Group.

The above noted closure agreement will see laid off members receiving two (2) weeks pay for each year of service up to a maximum of fifty two (52) weeks.

The bargaining committee representatives were Susan Wragg, Kathleen Swerhun, Vicki Ducharme, Alison Parker and Kathy Quinn who all worked diligently to obtain an agreement that would make significant gains for the membership. CAW Local 229 Vice President Suzanne Pulice and Community Based Organizer Jody Powers also worked closely with the CAW City Homes bargaining committee to ensure success during this process. CAW Local 229 President Barb Maki, National Representative Andy Savela and the National Director Tom Murphy also provided their expertise to help bring this round of negotiations to completion.

CAW Local 229 members of this bargaining unit ratified the agreement on December 14th 2008 overwhelmingly with 98 % in favour during votes held at the Davinci Centre. Bargaining hi-lights included a closure agreement that includes 2 weeks pay for each year service (maximum 52 weeks) for laid off workers upon closure, which is double the Employment Standards of Ontario. Wage increases for these workers of 6.5% over the duration of the agreement with retroactivity back to June 30th 2007. Other enhancements include the recognition of a Women’s Advocate, improvements in bereavement language, continuation of salary for workers on STD\LTD etc. for up to 6 weeks should a delay occur as well as multiple renewals of letters of understanding.

Congratulations to the entire bargaining Committee for their hard work and commitment on behalf of the City of Thunder Bay Homes for the Aged members.

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