The City of Vancouver has applied to the Labour Relations Board to supervise a vote on a final offer to members of Canadian Union of Public Employees Local 15. Under the Labour Relations Code, an employer may request a "last offer vote" prior to a strike or lockout. CUPE Local 15 represents 2,500 city workers, who have voted in favour of strike action. As the Straight went to press, the Labour Relations Board was scheduled to hold a hearing to determine "essential services" for the city.
The City's final offer includes a wage increase of 9.25 percent over a 39-month contract. The union has recommended the members reject the deal, which would expire after the 2010 Winter Games. CUPE Local 1004 represents almost 2,000 city outside workers, who have also voted in favour of strike action. CUPE Local 1004 members are responsible for garbage collection in Vancouver.
(straight.com)
