Northern News Services
Monday, July 16, 2007

YELLOWKNIFE - Talks aimed at reaching a new contract for unionized workers at Fort Smith's Trailcross Treatment Centre broke down on July 10, and a strike may be just a few weeks away.

The 16 councillors and support workers are members of the Public Service Alliance of Canada (PSAC)/Union of Northern Workers Local 2.

Trailcross accommodates nine children, aged 13-16. They require treatment for social, emotional and/or behavioural difficulties.

The facility is operated by Bosco Homes under license from the Department of Health and Social Services.

Jean-Francois Des Lauriers, regional executive vice-president for PSAC North, said the union expects a conciliation officer to "book out" on July 16, meaning the two sides are too far apart for conciliation to make any difference.

After conciliation, strike notice could be given at the end of a 21-day mandatory cooling off period.

Des Lauriers said the union is extremely disappointed with the employer's final offer.

It includes wage increases of 1 per cent in the first year and 2.8 per cent in the second year.

However, Des Lauriers noted incremental wage increases as a person gains experience within a job classification would be eliminated.

"It's really an insult for these workers," he said.

The union is also objecting to proposed reduced rights for employees on probation.

"The Public Service Alliance of Canada does not bargain concessions," Des Lauriers said "Unless there is a complete change of attitude on the part of management, our members will take job action in support of their bargaining team."

A strike vote has already been held in June and the workers voted about 85 per cent in favour of walking out, if necessary.

The workers' previous contract expired in March of last year.

Attempts by News/North to reach a management spokesperson were not successful.