PNE workers vote to strike
Posted September 14, 2011 2:51 pm.
This article is more than 5 years old.
VANCOUVER (NEWS1130) – Vancouver Giants hockey games could be behind picket lines unless unionized workers at the PNE get a new contract.
CUPE workers at the PNE have been without a contract since January and have now voted 92 per cent in favour of job action, and that includes ushers, groundskeepers and security. It’s the first time in 25 years an agreement wasn’t signed before the fair.
“We have painters, we have electricians, plumbers, any type of trade that’s utilized on the grounds, groundskeeping, sweepers, ushers, security. There [are] a massive amount of individuals that we represent in there in multiple different classifications,” says CUPE 1004 President Mike Jackson.
He explains future events at the PNE could have picket lines around them if no deal is reached.
“It would certainly impact the possibility of Fright Nights, any concerts that take place in the [Pacific Coliseum], Vancouver Giants games, and any other thing that comes on the premises of the PNE. Obviously we’re hoping that we can resolve this prior and not have to go on strike.”
Contract talks broke down three weeks ago, but more talks are set for next week. CUPE wants better job security and cost of living increases for their lowest-paid employees.
