Community Social Services talks on pause

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Community Social Services Bargaining Update

After returning to the negotiations table in mid-September, the Community Social Services bargaining committee continued talks over wages and compensation, with a focus on making gains in the areas that CSS members had mandated.

As it stands, the parties still do not agree on how to reach a tentative agreement that includes a fair and equitable compensation package, meaningful recognition and reconciliation for Indigenous workers, supporting psychologically safer and healthier workplaces, and promoting equity, diversity and inclusion.

Community social services is the only public sector with a specific subsector collective agreement for Indigenous Services. These workers support individuals, children, and families in communities across the province. The bargaining committee cannot reach a tentative agreement that does not fully recognize these workers and bring them parity with their counterparts, specifically those who are directly employed with the provincial government in non-Indigenous agencies.

Bargaining will now be paused due to scheduling conflicts. However, the bargaining committee will continue with small group discussions in preparation for resuming negotiations in November.

CSS members have been waiting patiently to reach a tentative agreement. While this much time was not anticipated to be spent at the bargaining table, the committee is committed to working towards an agreement that CSS members can be proud to accept.

To stay informed, members need to keep their contact information updated through the HEU website. Bargaining bulletins are also posted on the HEU website.