AUPE Media Release: Town of Coaldale staff defeat a forced vote on an insulting contract

COALDALE – Alberta Union of Provincial Employees (AUPE) members working for the Town of Coaldale overwhelmingly voted “NO” to an insulting offer forced on them by their employer.  

The Town of Coaldale approached the Alberta Labour Relations Board July 8 to force its staff to vote on an insultingly bad new contract, bypassing these union members’ right to collective bargaining. This vote was conducted August 6, resulting in AUPE members overwhelmingly rejecting their employer’s offer.

“AUPE members in Coaldale stood up for their rights and the wages they deserve,” says AUPE Vice-President Curtis Jackson.  

“Countless hours of work went into this successful vote. These workers ensured everyone understood the situation, even handing out leaflets to the public to increase support and solidarity, and it worked.”

The forced vote was the latest attempt by the Town to undermine free and fair bargaining. The Town continues to bypass AUPE as exclusive bargaining agent for its members, attempting to influence workers directly, something the union considers a clear Unfair Labour Practice.

“Staff knew that the offer came nowhere close to meeting their needs,” says Jackson. “With this vote, they have sent a strong message to their employer. These AUPE members won’t stand for the employer's tactics and are prepared to fight for a fair deal at the bargaining table.  

“Keep your eyes on these workers. They’re putting on the pressure and won’t back down. That’s how they’re going to win the wages they need and the strong public services Coaldale residents deserve.”