The Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) Local 1169, representing library workers in Calgary, rejected a wage deal from the city on Monday, deeming it “insulting.” The union claims the offer fell short of the increases granted to other city employee groups and fails to address critical issues faced by library staff. CUPE Local 1169 will initiate mediation and collaborate with other union groups seeking wage adjustments.
A stretch of streetlights in Calgary’s Southwood community has residents worried about their children’s safety. The lights have been out for weeks, leaving the area unlit at night. Resident Jenn Kirkup says kids are at risk, especially in school zones. Becky Poschman adds that the darkness makes it unsafe for people to walk their dogs or navigate icy conditions. An audit by the City of Calgary revealed that the average wait time for high priority calls for repairs is 77 days, instead of the targeted 14 days. The city has since hired extra help to address the issue, which is now down to a 10-day response time.
Negotiators for the City of Calgary have improved their offer to 10.5% over three years in response to an overwhelming strike vote by the union representing 5,600 city workers. However, the union says the city has failed to address other critical issues, such as work from home. Discussions are ongoing, and a meeting with a provincial mediator is scheduled for June 5.
