EDMONTON, Alberta-CUPE Local 3550’s strike will officially begin on Thursday, October 24th, 2024, from 7am-5pm for all work sites at Edmonton Public schools.
“Education support staff know how much our work means to students and families, and we’re deeply grateful for the advocacy from the community alongside us to stand up for an education system that’s properly funded and properly supported.”
The Local held their strike vote on October 16th, 2024 resulting in 92% of eligible voting members turning out to vote with 97% voting in favour of taking strike action.
“This result shows incredible strength in the membership’s resolve to achieve a fair collective bargaining agreement,” said CUPE Local 3550 President Mandy Lamoureux.
Strike notice was served on October 18th, following the Local’s strike vote receiving confirmation from the Alberta Labour Board.
With the prospect of 3000 support staff off the job, Lamoureux hopes the provincial government will recognize their mandated wage caps are the major problem getting in the way of being able to settle a deal. “Shortfalls in public education funding and mandated low wages have to stop. This is not sustainable. Poverty wages won’t help recruit and retain the skilled professionals we need in our schools,” she said.
The Local has seen an outpouring of support from the public, Lamoureux added. “Education support staff know how much our work means to students and families, and we’re deeply grateful for the advocacy from the community alongside us to stand up for an education system that’s properly funded and properly supported.”
Contacts
Jocelyn Johnson
780-700-5592
