In a dispute over wages, Oxford County, Ontario wastewater treatment workers voted 100% in favor of a strike if a fair agreement cannot be reached with the county. The 14 workers, members of the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE), Local 1146, are operators and maintenance staff members of the county's wastewater treatment plants.
"Our members are determined to win fair wages and respect," said Linda Thurston Neeley, CUPE national representative. "Management should recognize the significance of a 100% strike vote and come to the table prepared to address our members' issues."
Conciliation talks are scheduled for Monday, Feb. 27. The workers' last contract expired December 31, 2004.
"Workers who provide similar services should receive similar compensation," said Thurston Neeley. "It's time for the county to show respect for our members' work and bridge the pay difference."
Source: CUPE
