Highland Shores Children’s Aid (HSCA) and CUPE 2197, the Union representing the Society’s 210 workers, have been actively engaged in bargaining negotiations in order to reach a first collective agreement for the Society.
The two parties are very pleased to report that a new collective agreement for the Society’s unionized staff that was agreed to during a day of mediation on October 22nd was ratified by Union members on October 27th. The agreement was approved by the Highland Shores Children’s Aid Board of Directors at their meeting on October 28th at the Society’s office in Picton.
The collective agreement, which ends March 31, 2019, demonstrates the commitment of the leadership teams for both CUPE and HSCA to enhance labour relations within the organization.
Commenting on the agreement, Highland Shores Children’s Aid Executive Director, Mark Kartusch said, “These negotiations have been difficult at times, but both parties understood the importance of reaching a first collective agreement for Highland Shores. I believe this agreement is reflective of the important and difficult work that our union staff do for families and children while at the same time recognizing the financial reality that is facing not only the field of child welfare but many government funded agencies. I thank the bargaining teams for the effort they have put into this process and with the assistance of all staff; I look forward to moving on with the important work that lies ahead.”
“Merging three different collective agreements into one was a long and, at times, challenging process. This agreement is a reflection of the hard work and solidarity, not only of our bargaining committee, but all our members as well. We are glad that a contract was reached without compromising the services our members provide to their clients and families”, said Mark Zwart, President of CUPE 2197.