City of Cambridge committed to CUPE Local 32 negotiations

Cambridge, Ontario. January 30, 2017… The City of Cambridge continues to work with the City’s outside workers represented by Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE Local 32) to find an agreement that is fair and reasonable for all City employees and the taxpayers of Cambridge.

“We are in early stages of negotiations with the Union,” said City Manager Gary Dyke. “We have an agreed-to process with them, and are committed to following it. Both sides need time to review and consider the information provided and present their proposals. These fulsome conversations will take place this week as scheduled. The City values all of our employees and we will work to find a solution that balances the concerns of the Union with our responsibility to manage tax dollars effectively.”

During negotiations, City business is operating as usual with all services available. Negotiations continue on Monday, January 30 to 31 and Wednesday, February 1. The City does not want a labour disruption and while it recognizes the legal deadline of February 2, negotiating staff are committed to working up to and beyond that date to reach a solution that is in the best interest and safety of the community.

“We hope that this is a position that is shared by the executive of CUPE Local 32,” concluded Gary Dyke. “In the meantime, we have to be prepared for any scenario. Therefore, strike preparations are underway to ensure public safety is maintained at all times and to limit the impact a labour disruption might have on the community.”

The City will provide up-to-date information at www.cambridge.ca/labournegotiations. Residents are invited to visit the page often for the latest information and progress.

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Primary Media Contact:

Andrea Montgomery
Director of Communications (A)
Office of the City Manager
City of Cambridge
montgomerya@cambridge.ca
(519) 740-4680 ext. 4606 / cell: (289) 983-1781