Unions representing municipal workers make joint proposal to city

Toronto , Two unions representing municipal workers have submitted a joint proposal that they say could save the city millions of dollars and provide a “way forward towards a negotiated settlement.”
CUPE 79 and CUPE 416 presented members of the city’s negotiating committee with the proposal on Wednesday.
The proposal suggests that members of both unions be placed under a single benefits program, allowing for the bulk purchase of drugs. The proposal also suggests introducing a collaborative model that would allow injured employees to return to the workplace sooner, perhaps in different jobs.
According to CUPE 79 President Tim Maguire, the benefits proposal alone could result in $3 million in immediate savings with that number increasing to $7 million over the life of the deal.
“We think this is a move forward proposal that could help us arrive at a solution in this round of negotiations rather than taking money out of our member’s pockets and leaving them unhealthier through deep cuts to their benefits,” he said. “Let’s move forward with a collaborative approach and find solutions.”
Later on Thursday, city officials wrote on their bargaining updates website that changes to benefits proposed by both unions would increase the city’s costs by $9.5 million.
Last week, the Ministry of Labour issued two ‘no-board reports,’ which is one of the final steps towards a potential work stoppage.
As of Feb. 19, CUPE 416 members will be in a legal strike position and the city will be in a legal lockout position. CUPE 79 members will be in a legal strike position as of Feb. 20.
CUPE 416 represents approximately 6,000 outside workers, including snowplow operators, paramedics, garbage collectors, and park staff. CUPE 79, meanwhile, represents more than 20,000 inside workers.