On Tuesday, February 24, 2015, the MGEU Bargaining Committee representing
members of Local 178-St.Amant Community Residential Program (CRP) met with the
employer’s bargaining representatives to begin the monetary portion of their contract
negotiations.
Heading into
negotiations, the number one priority for the Local was to attract and retain
staff in order to ensure quality and consistent care for St.Amant clients. The
second priority was to ensure staff would no longer be forced to work well
beyond their scheduled shifts, as mandated overtime has become a significant issue
for members of the Local.
The Local determined that a fair and reasonable wage
increase would address both of these problems by attracting new employees who
may not otherwise choose St.Amant as a career. It would also demonstrate to the
staff of St.Amant CRP that they are valued and respected for the important work they
do.
The meeting on Tuesday dealt with proposals regarding wages, shift premiums,
mandated shifts/forced overtime, and sleep-over rates. Unfortunately, the
employer’s financial offer fell well short of what the Local 178 Bargaining
Committee felt was needed to address their significant recruitment and
retention problems. It was clear from the proposals put forward by the
employer’s negotiating representatives that they are not prepared to address
this issue at the bargaining table.
As a result, the Local 178 Bargaining Committee broke off negotiations.
They feel there is no other option but to ask members to stand together and
vote to reject the employer’s offer and provide a strong strike mandate.
On February 25, the Local’s Bargaining Committee began preparations on a
ratification/strike vote to be held Tuesday, March 17.
Further details about the vote are being sent to Local 178 members.