Doing What’s Best for Kids

Media Release: Update on Disputes Inquiry Board (DIB)

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(Fort McMurray, AB - Oct. 31st, 2024) The Alberta Labour Relations Board has organized a vote on the DIB recommendations as requested by CUPE Local 2545. The vote will run from Friday morning to 4:00pm on Monday. Once the results are reviewed, a formal confirmation of the results will be shared on Tuesday afternoon. If  CUPE Local 2545 Members accept the DIB recommendations, then we move forward with the recommendations for this round of negotiations and begin the next collective agreement negotiations. If the recommendations are rejected, CUPE Local 2545 may provide 72 hours’ notice of strike and withdraw their services.  

Fort McMurray Public School Division (FMPSD) would also like to provide clarification regarding the ongoing labour dispute action involving CUPE Local 2545.

Key Points of Clarification

Volunteer Postings:

In Fall 2022, FMPSD introduced a system for permanently posting volunteer opportunities, enabling parents to sign up with ease. This system also allows for the direct upload of Criminal Record Checks. Additionally, we commenced a pilot interview process for volunteers to ensure the highest level of engagement and safety.  This is NOT a system set up to hire replacement workers during a strike.

Cost of Living Allowance:

All FMPSD staff members receive the Fort McMurray Cost of Living Allowance. CUPE members' maximum annual allowance is $12,480, which translates to $8 per hour for a 6-hour Education Assistant and $6 per hour for an 8-hour-per-day administrative assistant—on top of their regular wages, pension, and benefits. Furthermore, FMPSD covers 100% of the cost of all CUPE member benefits, in contrast to the 80% coverage provided by most other school divisions.

Timeline of Events

  • June 11, 2021: The parties agreed to extend the bargaining timelines, with initial proposals exchanged electronically in the fall.
  • August 31, 2021: The collective agreement expired.
  • January 23, 2024: Bargaining committees met, tabling proposals with 81 items and signing off on some minor items.
  • March 11, 2024: The second meeting addressed wages, proposing a new grid for new hires only. CUPE stated that it was unwilling to negotiate this new grid and terminated bargaining to apply for mediation. They were unavailable to meet until August.
  • August 20, 2024: Mediation took place but ended without progress as CUPE did not engage in discussions on settlement terms under the proposed "new employee" wage grid.
  • August 23, 2024: The mediator advised the Minister of Labour that the parties were too far apart, initiating a 14-day 'cooling-off period' on August 24, 2024.
  • September 10 & 11, 2024: CUPE held a strike vote and served strike notice effective September 17, 2024.
  • September 16, 2024: A Disputes Inquiry Board was established to facilitate resolution efforts.
  • September 24, 2024: The Disputes Inquiry Board met with all parties, with the report received on October 15, 2024.

Current Negotiation Standpoint

CUPE’s Request:

CUPE has requested a retroactive $6/hour wage increase, estimated to cost the Division $7.8 million. Such an increase would significantly impact staffing and class sizes; $7.8 million equates to about 76 of our 404 teaching positions. Going forward, this would increase annual wages and benefits by about $3.4 million annually. This is not financially feasible under the current funding model shared by all Alberta school divisions.

Employer’s Proposal:

FMPSD proposed to green circle current employees, offering them the same percentage raise accepted by 90% of other support staff agreements across the province. New employees would be placed on a new grid, recognizing certifications, education, and experience.

In these uncertain times, we remain steadfast in our commitment to the safety and well-being of our students. Our schools will continue to operate, guided by a deep dedication to providing a safe learning environment. We will continue to maintain open lines of communication and working towards a resolution. We are always open to meeting with CUPE Local 2545 to advance negotiations in good faith.

Thank you for your trust and support as we work together to ensure that education remains a safe and stable pillar in our community.

For further information or inquiries, please contact:

Office of the Superintendent                                                   
Fort McMurray Public School Division
780-788-8009
info@fmpsd.ab.ca