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Breakthrough came one day after major rally and show of support. Employees celebrate gains after 86 days on the picket lines. Updated
Ottawa (15 Dec. 2009) - A tentative settlement has been ratified in the long strike at the Canadian Museum of Civilization and the Canadian War Museum where a total of 420 workers walked off the job on Sept. 21.
The deal was announced Monday after negotiations resumed on the weekend. It was ratified by the employees on Tuesday – the 86th day of the walkout.
Among the gains won by the workers were:
- A guarantee that no indeterminate employee will suffer involuntary termination as a result of contracting out.
- New job security provisions that commit the museums to use attrition to minimize job loss.
- Seven new permanent part-time positions with assigned hours in the front-line services, to be posted and filled internally, based on employees’ seniority and current job titles.
- For temporary full-time employees, the possibility of becoming indeterminate after 24 months, should the functions they perform continue to be required.
- New clauses for maternity and parental leave which are now consistent with the Quebec Parental Insurance legislation.
The employees are represented by the Public Service Alliance of Canada (PSAC). The breakthrough came one day after a major rally and concert in support for the workers.
Among the many labour groups participating in the enthusiastic display of solidarity was the National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE).
The workers include librarians, conservators, exhibition designers, guides, educational programming staff and security personnel. They have been without a contract since March.
“We are thrilled at the gains we have made in the areas of job security and contracting-out,” says Daniel Poulin, a guide at the Museum of Civilization and the president of PSAC Local 70396. “Our members stood strong in the rain and snow. They showed tremendous solidarity and gained support from the Ottawa/Gatineau community. I am so proud of everything we were able to accomplish together.”
John Gordon, national president of PSAC, praised the workers for their courage and determination throughout the long strike.
“These workers stuck together, they supported each other and they made a difference in their workplace,” said Gordon. “They are the heart and soul of the Museum of Civilization and War Museum. We are thrilled that they will be returning to work to continue providing valuable services to Canadians.”
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
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NUPGE stands in solidarity with museum workers