Further to my previous messages, please find below the latest on the current labour dispute from the City of Vancouver.
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The Vancouver Public Library has formally tabled a five-year offer with a 17.5 percent wage increase to CUPE Local 391, which represents library employees.
The Vancouver Public Library offer includes the same term and pay increase accepted by the District of North Vancouver and their workers represented by CUPE Local 389.
“I believe this is a fair offer and hope that our CUPE local will feel the same way,” said Vancouver City Librarian Paul Whitney. “This offer matches the term and wage level of the District of North Vancouver settlement and we hope CUPE Local 391 will see this as forming the basis for reaching a settlement.”
In addition to the 17.5 percent wage increase over five years, the Library has offered to negotiate wage adjustments as a means of addressing wage issues raised by library staff. As part of negotiations, the Library is seeking flexibility in management of the organization, including expanding Sunday openings for the public.
The Library is committed to finding a resolution to the current labour dispute and restoring library services for the citizens of Vancouver, Mr. Whitney added.
CUPE 391 initiated job action on July 24 and went on strike on July 26 closing the city’s 22 library branches.
Library patrons are asked to keep books and other library materials at home until libraries reopen. No late fees will be charged for the period of a strike or any job action. If it is essential to return library materials, overnight book return slots will be open.
