Mediator brought in
Vancouver Island University (VIU) and Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) Local 1838 announced on Friday, November 2, they have agreed to move to mediation as a next step in their collective bargaining process.
On October 30, CUPE members voted 86 per cent in favour of taking job action after being without a contract since 2010.
Local 1838 represents nearly 300 employees at VIU including food service workers, clerical staff, facilities workers and library staff at the university’s five campuses on Vancouver Island and Powell River.
In a jointly issued written statement both VIU and CUPE stated they are, “committed to reaching a fair, negotiated settlement that is fair to all our employees, while also respecting the current fiscal challenges and realities.
Updates for students about the ongoing situation are being sent out by email from the university’s registrar and posted to the university’s website, CUPE’s website or on Twitter at @VIUNews.
Pigeon regulation
City of Powell River councillors have adopted an animal control bylaw amendment that regulates feeding and attracting pigeons.
The amendment is a response to public complaints about residents feeding pigeons and creating a neighbourhood nuisance.
The bylaw is complaint driven and city bylaw enforcement officers seek voluntary compliance initially.
It’s expected council will amend the city’s municipal ticket information bylaw to include reference to the new section in the animal control bylaw.
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