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College workers vote in favour of strike mandate

Approximately 1,600 workers at Red River College and Assiniboine Community College can now set strike date if remaining bargaining sessions fail.

Peter Olfert, president of the Manitoba Government and General Employees' Union (MGEU/NUPGE)Winnipeg (14 June 2010) - Manitoba Government and General Employees' Union (MGEU/NUPGE) members employed by Red River College and Assiniboine Community College have voted overwhelmingly to strike if necessary to win a fair contract.

“The results of (the) vote sends a clear message to the employers that what they’ve presented to members thus far is an insufficient offer,” says Peter Olfert, MGEU president.

For several months, the workers have been upset by the lack of progress at the bargaining table, particularly with respect to wages and health benefits. They remain hopeful that an agreement can soon be reached during four remaining days of bargaining scheduled throughout the rest of June.

“It’s not over yet. The next step for the committee is to return to the bargaining table and work to reach a fair and reasonable settlement,” says Olfert.

However, if that does not happen, the bargaining committee, which represents approximately 1,600 employees in the province, will have the option of setting a strike date.

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The National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE) is one of Canada's largest labour organizations with over 340,000 members. Our mission is to improve the lives of working families and to build a stronger Canada by ensuring our common wealth is used for the common good. NUPGE

More information:
Manitoba community colleges consider strike vote