CUPE Education workers receive strong mandate from membership to address inadequate wages

HALIFAX, Nova Scotia–(BUSINESS WIRE)–CUPE’s Nova Scotia School Board Council of Unions (NSSBCU) is heading back to the bargaining table on Monday, and they’re looking for a significant raise for school support staff. Education workers have seen the value of their wages fall by nearly 10% over the past decade, and many are considering leaving the sector.

“When we have school staff being left with the decision of which bills to pay, groceries, utilities or rent, that’s unacceptable,” said CUPE’s NSSBCU chairperson Chris Melanson. “I’m sure the Premier agrees that something needs to change.”

CUPE represents nearly 5000 education workers across seven Regional Centres for Education and Conseil Scolaire Acadien Provincial, including educational assistants, school bus drivers, support workers, cafeteria workers, librarians, janitors and custodians, tradespeople, lunch/bus/grounds supervisors and early childhood educators.

“We’re confident that we can come to an agreement that keeps our members out of poverty so they can focus on what they do best: providing a safe and supportive learning environment for our kids.” Melanson said.

CUPE’s NSSBCU and the Nova Scotian government will resume negotiations on January 23rd.

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Contacts

Taylor Johnston

CUPE Atlantic Communications

1-902-536-4922

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