WHITE ROCK – Almost a month after workers in the City of White Rock voted 94 percent in favour of strike action if necessary, the union is discouraged by a lack of progress with the employer.

CUPE 402-01 President Mike Guraliuk is letting members know that they need to be prepared for job action, following a disappointing meeting this morning with employer representatives.

“We were hopeful that today’s meeting would signal a renewed commitment on the employer’s part to seriously address members’ issues,” said Guraliuk. “However, it does not seem like much has changed since we last talked.”

While the union does not see much reason for optimism today, Guraliuk says they will enter into mediation next Monday prepared to work hard to get an agreement.

Bargaining started in June, 2013 and continued through to January 27, 2014 when the parties reached an impasse. Following this, White Rock workers gave CUPE a strong strike mandate in early February.  Mediation with the assistance of a Labour Relations Board-appointed mediator is scheduled for March 10 and April 1, 2014.

CUPE 402-01 represents members who work for the City of White Rock and provide a wide range of services to White Rock residents and businesses. 

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