Valoris in Collective Bargaining

In order to keep the community informed about what is happening at Valoris, we thought it would be pertinent to share some information regarding the work agreement negotiations between Valoris for Children and Adults of Prescott-Russell and its unionized employees.

•The Collective Agreement for unionized employees at Valoris for Children and Adults of Prescott-Russell expired on March 31, 2018; however, it remains in effect until the ratification of a new collective agreement.

•The Labour and Management Bargaining committees have met three times since the beginning of the negotiations.

•Discussions remain professional and respectful. By mutual agreement, the employer and union parties have agreed to use a conciliator in order to advance negotiations. A conciliator is a neutral external agent appointed by the Ministry of Labour who acts as a facilitator between the parties to help move the process forward. The agent encourages discussions and tries to ensure that these are conducted in a framework conducive to reaching an agreement acceptable to both parties.

•As reported in the media, unionized employees voted for a strike mandate. Such a mandate does not necessarily result in a strike. By continuing negotiations, it is possible to avoid a work stoppage. The strike mandate demonstrates to the employer that unionized employees are united. It gives the Union Bargaining committee the right to call a strike if deemed necessary.

•The next bargaining date is scheduled for April 26, 2018 in the presence of the conciliator.

•To this day, both parties express their desire to continue the discussions, and are eager to reach an amicable agreement. We have faith in the bargaining process and remain confident that the parties will come to an agreement.

Throughout this negotiation process, we would like to reassure the Prescott-Russell community that client services remain our primary focus. We continue to strive towards achieving our service mission.

For all questions or concerns, please feel free to contact us at any time.