The Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE), Local 1369 and the Sudbury Catholic District School Board have ratified a new
three year collective agreement with its custodial, maintenance and warehouse staff (retroactive) from September 1, 2006 to August 31, 2009. The new agreement includes the following wage increases; 2.5 percent in the first year, 3 percent in the second year and 2 percent in year three. The agreement ensures that the stable and co-operative work environment will continue at the Board’s 24 Catholic elementary and secondary schools.

On Sunday, March 18, 2007 the union membership voted in favour of the tentative settlement and on Tuesday, March 20, 2007 Trustees for the Sudbury District School Board approved the new contract.

David Chezzi, National Representative and Associate Coordinator for the OSBCC stated that, “when both parties began negotiations there was a willingness on both sides to come to an agreement without having to resort to work interruptions, a strike or lockout and/or arbitration.”

Paula Peroni, Chair of the Board’s negotiating committee and Board Chair is pleased with the fact that the contract has been ratified by the membership. “The fact that the majority of the CUPE membership voted in favour of the agreement is extremely encouraging,” stated Peroni. “It reflects the outcome of the goodwill demonstrated by both parties throughout the negotiation process.”