‘Let's get this thing done': WSIB, union hopeful a deal is in sight in 3-week work stoppage
The OCEU/CUPE president visited WSIB workers in London as the strike enters its fourth week.
Striking WSIB workers in London had some heavy hitters on the picket line Thursday, as their union continues mediated bargaining with the provincial agency.
'And let's get this thing done, get people back to work so they can do what they do best, taking care of the injured in Ontario,' said Harry Goslin, president of OCEU/CUPE 1750, while speaking through a bullhorn to those on the picket line. He joined them for a rally outside the downtown London office.
Goslin told CTV News the union is awaiting a response on its latest offer made Wednesday night. He said the main sticking points continue to be wages and workload.
'Workload is a major component to this. Compensation is another big component. We just don't want to fall behind inflation. We want to mirror what's happening in the public sector. We're not asking for the world here,' said Goslin.
Aaron Lazarus, vice president of Communications for WSIB, said he's glad both sides are talking. He said WSIB is offering employees a fair deal.
'We're offering an above-inflation wage increase for people, so that in 2027, about 75 per cent of unionized employees at the WSIB would be making a $100,000 or more. And we're also addressing concerns around workload,' Lazarus explained.
Also on hand, London North Centre New Democrat MPP Terence Kernaghan, who said the provincial agency isn't treating workers with respect.
'Well, I wanted to come and support the workers, who, in working for the WSIB, you would think that you would have an employer that respects workers, that respects their needs. Well for the first time we have an employer that doesn't want to pay people properly,' said Kernaghan.
Ontario Compensation Employees Union/CUPE 1750 represents 3,600 WSIB workers across Ontario, including about 240 in London. They have been on strike since May 21. It is the first work stoppage of its kind in WSIB's 110-year history.
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