Powell River Regional District and its Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) members have ratified a new collective agreement.
The settlement was achieved after five days of bargaining. The agreement reflects the priorities of both parties to treat employees fairly and with respect, and to recognize the financial realities of the regional district.
Settlement highlights include improvements to paramedical benefits and sick days and wage increases providing an 8.5 per cent lift over five years. The agreement also recognizes CUPE members’ right to be represented by their union.
“CUPE 798 members are pleased that we had a respectful round of bargaining and that we were able to achieve an agreement that recognizes the value and commitment of regional district employees while providing stability to the community,” said CUPE Local 798 president Danielle Craigen.
Al Radke, regional district chief administrative officer, said: “The regional district is happy that productive discussions shaped the way for a tangible product; one that is long-term and acknowledges the challenges for a small local government, yet still respects the bargaining unit membership.”
Colin Palmer, regional district chair, said the regional district is very pleased there has been a settlement. The agreement to a five-year contract is good and there were no “major hiccups” in the bargaining, he said.
Palmer added that City of Powell River Director Maggie Hathaway was the regional district’s representative during the bargaining sessions and Jim Palm, the other city director, sat in on a session while she was away.
“The two city directors at some point were involved with the staff,” he said. “We didn’t need an outside negotiator. I’m sure the board is very happy about what took place and with the end result.”
Palmer believes the terms of the contract are good for the community, good for the board and good for the union workers. “They have a five-year security situation and that’s good for everybody.”
Palmer said there is a good relationship between the two parties and it should continue.
The regional district provides an array of services, including regional park maintenance, fire protection, land use planning, emergency preparedness and solid waste management. Local 798 represents 18 workers in the district.
