Charlottetown’s city council members have decided against holding a formal meeting with striking water and sewer workers for now. Mayor Philip Brown broke a tie vote against a motion proposed by Coun. Mitch Tweel during the council’s recent session, which aimed to explore the possibility of engaging with the striking workers.
The tension was palpable as horns blared, music blared, and chants reverberated through the council chamber, urging the City of Charlottetown to engage in fair negotiations with the striking workers who have been on strike for 79 days. Despite the intense atmosphere, Mayor Brown cast his vote to halt the motion’s progress, leading to disappointment among the workers and their supporters.
Robbie Howatt, the president of CUPE Local 830, expressed his dismay at the decision, emphasizing the dedication of the workers to the city. The meeting was attended by approximately 20 union members, while outside, over 50 supporters marched in solidarity with the striking workers, demanding fair treatment.
The workers have raised concerns about the city outsourcing tasks that would typically be handled by water and sewer employees to private contractors during the strike. Howatt stressed that the support shown by the union members and their allies extends beyond their specific cause, highlighting the broader significance of the issue.
Apart from wage increases, the union is also focusing on challenges faced by long-term employees in obtaining certain certifications, which could potentially jeopardize their employment. Howatt highlighted the difficulties faced by some workers, particularly those with learning disabilities, in meeting the certification requirements set by the city.
Although there were divided opinions within the council regarding engaging with the union, Mayor Brown emphasized the importance of respecting the collective bargaining process. A mediation meeting between the city and the striking workers is scheduled, offering hope for a resolution, although some remain skeptical about the outcome.
Howatt called on the council to take more decisive action, emphasizing the workers’ dedication to the city over the years. While council members are not directly involved in negotiations, they will have a say in approving or rejecting any agreement reached between the two parties in the future.