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'The toughest issues are still on the table.' - Tyler England.
Sudbury (6 Sept. 2010) - Two days of mediation between the Northern Ontario School of Medicine (NOSM) and striking members of Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU/NUPGE) Local 677 have ended with limited progress.
However, the two sides have agreed to resume talks Sept. 14-17 with the ongoing aid of a mediator. A communications blackout will be observed while the talks continue.
"The toughest issues are still on the table," says Tyler England, chair of the union’s bargaining team. "Some progress was made but more effort is needed."
OPSEU represents more than 150 administrative, clerical and technical staff at Laurentian University in Sudbury and Lakehead University in Thunder Bay. NOSM also operates satellite campuses in Sault Ste. Marie and Timmins.
Members of the local walked off the job Aug. 16 after negotiations, which date back to September 2009, broke down. Outstanding issues include hours of work, sick leave, contracting out, family leaves and wages.
NUPGE
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:
• Mediation scheduled in strike by NOSM employees
• OPSEU pledges solidarity to striking NOSM workers
• NOSM workers walk after negotiations break down
• NOSM workers vote 97% in favour of strike action
• NOSM employees choose OPSEU as their union