Bargaining FAQ

As we continue to head into the negotiation of our collective agreement this winter – we thought we’d post FAQs about collective bargaining between CUPE 960 and OPL.  This is subject to change – if you have any other questions to add please contact us at [email protected] 

Collective Bargaining FAQs

What is collective bargaining?

• Collective bargaining is the process of negotiations between the union and the employer to develop and maintain the collective agreement.

Who bargains for CUPE 960?

• The Bargaining Committee was elected in March 2013. The following people were elected to the committee:
  • Tiffany Balducci
  • Teresa Gawman
  • Andrea Silva
  • Nicole Adams
  • • Michelle Miller, CUPE National Servicing Rep – spokesperson*
    • • **denotes voice no vote**

Who bargains for OPL?

• The library’s bargaining committee is:
  • Ian Heckford - CEO
  • Margaret Wallace - Director, Operations
  • Ellen Stroud - Director, Service, Design, and Delivery
  • Wayne Johnson – Director, Support Services
  • Wallace Kenney - spokesperson, Hicks Morley Law Firm

How and where can I get information about bargaining?

• To get information on CUPE 960 bargaining, please follow the website. We will also send bargaining bulletins out via email.
• To follow bargaining of our sisters and brothers in other CUPE locals please visit www.cupe.ca 

When is the union going to meet with the employer?

• The following dates have been scheduled and are subject to change:
  • November 12
  • November 19
  • November 20
  • December 8
  • December 9

Our collective agreement is expired. What does that mean?

• The collective agreement stays active until the next one is negotiated.

When do we vote on the contract?

• All members of CUPE 960 are eligible to vote on the memorandum of agreement. The committee will present their recommendation at a special meeting.

Steps for Collective Bargaining

• Election of bargaining committee (March 2013)
• CUPE 960 and library exchange proposals
• Both parties continue to meet – this constitutes bargaining
• Once the parties agree, the memorandum of agreement is sent to library board for final approval, the union then takes the agreement to the membership and it’s voted on.

CUPE 3902 made a really awesome bargaining flow chart to help illustrate the process. Have a look here.