FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE APRIL 3, 2000
PSAC signs tentative deal with Parks Canada Agency prior to finalization of recertification hearings
OTTAWA …. Although the recertification hearings for Parks Canada Agency workers will continue into the summer, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) has been signed between the Public Service Alliance of Canada and the Agency which would provide the workers with the wage increases and benefits recently negotiated between the Alliance and Treasury Board.
Final details of the MOU, which would extend the terms and conditions of employment for one year, are still being worked out and will be sent to the membership for a ratification vote. Some of the highlights include:
a 2% increase to rates of pay effective on the expiry date of the Treasury Board collective agreements;
a lump sum payment of $625 to employees effective March 31, 2000; and, to some of the General Labour and Trades (GLT) and General Services (GS) members in the Atlantic, a lump sum payment of $725 effective March 31, 2000;
an increase in shift premium to $1.50;
recently negotiated upgrades to the Public Service Dental Plan;
four weeks and three days of vacation leave with pay after 17 years of service, and five weeks and three days of vacation leave after 27 years of service;
a one-year agreement which, if ratified, will expire on June 21 and August 4, 2000 (depending on the group).
"The parties agreed to meet in light of the fact that the recertification hearings are still ongoing and the subsequent delays in the bargaining process," says Nycole Turmel, PSAC national executive vice-president. "Our Parks Canada members will, through the voting process, tell us if they agree to the extension of their terms and conditions of employment through this MOU."
"PSAC Regional Bargaining Conferences in the Atlantic and in the West will be held in September where these Parks Canada members will provide input for suggested change to the terms and conditions of employment that are now in place," adds Turmel. "These conferences will be followed by a National Bargaining Conference at which time the negotiating team will be selected."
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For information: Nycole Turmel, PSAC national executive vice-president, (613) 560-4310
22-030400