Township of Brock and CUPE 1652 reach new collective agreement

DARRYL KNIGHT The Standard

BROCK: The Township of Brock and the Canadian Union of Public Employees Local 1652 (CUPE 1652) have successfully concluded negotiations, avoiding any job action.

The two parties had been working collaboratively, at the bargaining table, since the expiration of the previous agreement.

At a special council meeting, on Friday, Nov. 22nd, Brock Council ratified a new three-year Collective Agreement with CUPE 1652. Earlier that same day, CUPE members also voted to ratify the agreement.

The new agreement, which covers the term from April 1st, 2023, to March 31st, 2026, ensures labour stability for the township while balancing the interests of taxpayers and staff.

Mayor Walter Schummer expressed satisfaction with the outcome. “I’m pleased our bargaining team worked to achieve a mutually beneficial agreement. These are difficult times, and I believe we did everything we could, to manage the impact on Brock taxpayers while working with CUPE, to get a collective agreement which reflects our dedication to supporting our staff, as they serve the residents of Brock. This three-year agreement establishes a solid foundation for labour stability, as we continue to move our township forward in a responsible and proactive way. The effects on our annual budget will be managed, as best as possible, by Township staff and Council.”