GRANDE PRAIRIE – City Council today voted in favour of a new two-year contract negotiated with Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) Local 787.
The collective agreement is effective Jan. 1, 2007 to Dec. 31, 2008 and covers 340 casual, temporary, full- and part-time employees.
CUPE members ratified the pact earlier this week.
The agreement calls for a market adjustment for all employees and a wage increase of 4.25 per cent, as of Jan. 1, 2007.
Effective Jan. 1, 2008, the CUPE members receive a four per cent raise. There is also a further two per cent increase for employees in recognition of five years of continuous service. Employees with 10 years of consecutive service also receive a two per cent increase.
“We are delighted to conclude contract discussions with our CUPE staff after a series of smooth negotiations,” says Bill Walker, Chair of the City’s Negotiations Committee. “This agreement is reflective of current market realities and sets the stage for strengthened relations with our unionized employees.”
CUPE 787 President Randy Wald says employees are pleased with the contract. “This settlement recognizes the economic climate in our community and will contribute to the City’s ability to attract and retain employees,” he says. “We look forward to continued service to residents of Grande Prairie.”
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