Tentative Agreement Ratified Between NSGEU Local 87 and Parkland at the Lakes (Shannex)

Halifax – Members of NSGEU Local 87, which represents workers at Parklands at the Lakes, have ratified their first collective agreement with their employer, with 84 per cent of ballots cast in favour of acceptance.

“We are very pleased to have achieved a first agreement for this newly certified local at the table,” said Nova Scotia Government and General Employees Union President Joan Jessome, “This will be the first contract for this group of workers, and we are looking forward to working with this employer for many years to come, and building on this contract.”

The NSGEU had applied for First Contract Arbitration, but due to the perseverance of all parties, were able to reach an agreement at the table. First Contract Legislation was designed to help parties reach a first collective agreement without resorting to strike or lockout, with the possibility of an imposed agreement serving to encourage both the union and employer to compromise and find solutions. In this case, it is evident that first contract arbitration contributed to this freely bargained settlement.

We appreciate the role the Labour Board played in helping us to resolve our differences and come to an agreement that benefits both the workers and members they provide services to each and every day.

There are approximately 53 members in Local 87, including Cooks, Prep Cooks, Wait Staff, Food Service Attendants, Client Services Attendants, Resident Attendants, Activity Coordinators, Activity Leaders, Van Drivers, Housekeeping, Maintenance, and Client Services Coordinators (LPN).

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The Nova Scotia Government and General Employees Union represents over 30,000 women and men who provide quality public services Nova Scotians count on every day.

For more information or to arrange an interview with NSGEU President Joan Jessome, please contact: Holly Fraughton, NSGEU Communications Officer: 471.1781 (cell)| 424.4063 (office)| hfraughton@nsgeu.ca