CSSBA walks away from table: “We won’t bargain concessions”

BURNABY—The Community Social Services Bargaining Association (CSSBA) has notified the Community Social Services Employers Association (CSSEA) today that its members are walking away from the negotiating table.

On two key priority language articles, the employer continues to table concessions, and no real employment security has been tabled. Due to the fact that the CSSBA was unable to negotiate a tentative MOA under the mandated subcommittee, all proposals from both parties will revert back to the December 15, 2010 package. This means that all 12 of the employer’s concessions are still on the table.  All of the CSSBA monetary articles are also now back on the table.

“There is nothing in this deal that we can take to our members to recommend ratification. CUPE will not bargain concessions,” said CUPE representative Cheryl Colborne.

“We have notified the employer that we will continue with our scheduled strike votes, which will occur throughout the month of April.”

CUPE members look forward to receiving notice of polls which will specify the dates of strike votes for each local. The strike votes are expected to be concluded at the end of April.

“During the month of April, we will also be working on essential services staffing levels,” said Colborne.

cope491