CUPE Local 79 announced that the Ontario Labour Relations Board issued a "No Board Report" on March 1, setting the stage for potential labor disruption. This development means that the union, representing 30,000 City of Toronto inside workers, will be in a legal strike position, and the City will be in a legal lockout position at 12:01 a.m. on March 8. The union, embroiled in a labor dispute with the City over a new collective agreement, has been advocating for improvements in wages, benefits, and working conditions.
The City of Toronto has stated its readiness to continue negotiations, emphasizing its commitment to reaching a "fair and reasonable agreement." Officials from the City claimed they have actively participated in bargaining discussions and have been available to meet with CUPE Local 79. Notably, the City tabled its latest proposal on February 17 and is currently awaiting the union's response.
“firmly committed to the bargaining process” – A spokesperson with the City
CUPE Local 79's members voted overwhelmingly in favor of a strike mandate last month. The union cited staffing challenges and inadequate compensation as primary concerns. They argue that their members are facing "a crisis in retention and recruitment" due to burnout and being underpaid.
“For years, our members—some of the lowest-paid workers keeping this city running—have been falling further and further behind while Toronto’s top bureaucrats and executives keep getting richer,” – Nas Yadollahi, president of CUPE Local 79
The labor dispute directly impacts several vital sectors, including public health, planning, City Hall operations, employment and social services, ambulance dispatch, child care, and 311 services. The union has accused the City of refusing to negotiate a fair deal with frontline workers.
“end to mismanagement, an end to the City being a minimum wage employer and an end to the many staffing crises facing divisions across the City” – CUPE Local 79
However, the City maintains that it has contingency plans prepared to ensure the continuity of critical services during any potential labor disruption.
“In the event of a labour disruption, the City has contingency plans in place to continue delivering critical services that our residents, visitors and businesses rely on. Information about the City’s contingency plans will be announced when appropriate,” – A spokesperson with the City
