Algoma University / Windsor Park retirement home - Headed for Conciliation

The Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE), representing 34 workers at Windsor Park Retirement Inc., has asked the Ontario Ministry of Labour to assign a conciliation officer to assist with negotiations between the union and the owner of the home, Algoma University College, after the university refused to adequately address the issue of low wages in contract talks.

“Essentially, Algoma University is playing hardball with this predominantly female workforce, trying to perpetuate low wages, inadequate benefits and ridiculous sick leave provisions,” said Rick Alexander, CUPE National Representative. “Many of our members earn less than 10 dollars an hour and have only 2 sick days a year, in a profession that is high stress, high exposure to injury and illness. We’re not asking for huge gains here, but we need to work towards parity with similar institutions in our community – so far we’re way behind.”

The workers have been working without a contract since March 31st, 2005. The retirement home was donated to the University as a 3.8 million dollar gift earlier this year. CUPE is concerned the university will soon divest itself of the home, without addressing low pay and benefit issues.