WESTLOCK - Pembina Hills School Division and the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) Local 1661 have worked together and ratified a new four-year collective agreement on June 10.
The employees at the Westlock Transportation Bus Maintenance shop are impacted.
"This agreement reflects our shared commitment to providing stable, quality services for our students," said David Truckey, Pembina Hills School Division Board Chair.
"By working collaboratively with our CUPE partners, we've been able to reach a fair agreement that recognizes the valuable contributions of our support staff."
The new agreement takes effect on Sept. 1, 2024, and runs through to Aug. 31, 2028.
The June 10 special board meeting with CUPE Local 1661 attributes the successful conclusion to constructive negotiations that prioritized the needs of students, staff, and the broader school community.
Both the Pembina Hills School Division Board and CUE Local 1661 strived to avoid disruptions to educational services in consideration of other CUPE units across the province, where work disruptions were experienced earlier this year.
The collective agreement includes competitive salary increases that provide meaningful support for CUPE members:
- Effective September 1, 2024: 3 per cent salary increase
- Effective September 1, 2025: 3 per cent or $1.25 per hour increase, whichever is greater
- Effective September 1, 2025: 3 per cent salary increase
- Effective September 1, 2025: 3 per cent or $1.25 per hour increase, whichever is greater
Working conditions improvements, enhanced sick leave provision for new staff and a number of housekeeping items to improve daily operations were also included in the new agreement.
"CUPE members are essential to the success of our schools and students," said Brett Cooper, Pembina Hills School Division Superintendent.
"This agreement recognizes their dedication and provides the stability and support they deserve."
The Pembina Hills School Division said that both parties expressed their appreciation for the professional and respectful manner in which negotiations were conducted.
The new agreement solidifies their positive working relationship and delivers valuable services within the Pembina Hills School Division.
