Western has requested the assistance of a conciliator from the Ontario Ministry of Labour to help with negotiations between the university and CUPE Local 2692, representing approximately 574 food services assistants, food supervisors, cooks, chefs and food storespersons in Western’s Hospitality Services department.
Conciliation is a process through which either a union or employer can apply to the Ministry of Labour for help in resolving differences between the two parties so they can reach a collective agreement.
“The university welcomes the addition of a conciliator as we continue negotiations with representatives of our food service employees, and we’re hopeful an agreement will be reached,” said Helen Connell, Western’s associate vice-president, Communications & Public Affairs.
The union’s current collective agreement expired on June 30, 2012, and the two sides have had three negotiation meetings to date. Once a conciliator is appointed, dates for conciliation will be confirmed.
Visit the contract negotiations website for details.
