Government Bargaining Update #4
The IBEW 2228 Bargaining team met with the employer on April 9th, 10th, and the 11th.
The pace of progress through some of the proposals was slow. The employer explained their position on several proposals in greater detail and clarity than they have in the past. In an attempt to reach a resolution on a few issues the employer agreed to tentatively accept wording on a few of the Local’s proposals if and only if the Local withdrew some of its original proposals and accepted new wording from the employer on others.
The employer tabled a new wage offer on the first day of bargaining which consisted of a 1.0% economic increase in base pay in each year over four years.
Year 1 – increase to rates of pay: 1.00%
Year 2 – increase to rates of pay: 1.00%
Year 3 – increase to rates of pay: 1.00%
Year 4 – increase to rates of pay: 1.00%
The employer gave us a presentation regarding the implementation of collective agreements. We are being told working groups from the employer and the public service pay center are meeting regularly to find a solution to implementation and retroactivity. Without getting into all the details let me just say, at this point, the employer is still very much unsure of its ability to process retroactive payments accurately.
The Local’s Negotiating Team advised the employer that the new 1.0 % wage proposal was not worthy of a counter offer and that if they are serious about reaching a deal in the near future they need to come back to the table with a fair and respectable offer on wages! Members of the IBEW Local 2228 provide and support critical services to Canadian’s and deserve to be treated fairly.
The Bargaining Team has tentative dates to next meet on May the 22nd and 23rd.
In Solidarity
Paul Cameron
Business Manager/ Financial Secretary