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'The clients, their families and even the employer have all been vocal in their support of the striking workers.' - Carol Furlong.
St. John’s (11 Feb. 2010) - Striking workers who provide support services to persons with disabilities are calling on the minister responsible for the status of persons with disabilities to support them in achieving a fair and equitable collective agreement.
"The clients, their families and even the employer have all been vocal in their support of the striking workers," says Carol Furlong, president of the Newfoundland and Labrador Association of Public and Private Employees (NAPE/NUPGE).
“This is about credibility. If the minister believes in the fundamental principles of inclusion she will endorse these striking workers," says Furlong.
"The support these employees provide to persons with disabilities is integral to the success of their clients’ inclusion in the workforce. They empower a group who otherwise might not participate in paid work and they contribute to their social well being. They provide a means for these individuals to be, and to feel, productive. Everyone wants to make a contribution, to feel a sense of worth and inclusiveness. The striking workers, who act as job coaches, help make that happen for a group who otherwise might not have an opportunity to be part of the labour market."
The workers are employees of the Burin-Marystown Community Training and Employment Board. They have been on strike since November seeking equality and respect.
The government is demanding concessions from the group, which is paid little more than minimum wage. The workers are asking to keep the benefits they previously negotiated and to be treated equally with others who were at the collective bargaining table with government.
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