Edmonton municipal workers issue strike notice

The union that represents employees of the City of Edmonton says has issued a strike notice after negotiations stalled over the weekend.

Last Friday, employees voted a resounding ‘no’ on a proposed offer from the city regarding a wage increase between 2021 and 2025, and several other items within contract negotiations.

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READ MORE: Municipal workers vote ‘no’ on latest offer from City of Edmonton

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Civic Service Union 52 (CSU 52) President Lanny Chudyk said Friday that the union’s “future actions will be guided by the city’s willingness to revisit their stance and work towards a deal that genuinely considers the well-being and fair treatment of its employees.”

CSU 52 says the notice will be served to the City of Edmonton and Edmonton Public Library at 11 a.m., adding after the 72-hour notice, picket lines will begin at 11 a.m. on Thursday, March 14.

“Where is the leadership in this city? It’s regrettable that it has come to this, but our members have been more than patient and fair, asking for what is reasonable after five years of stagnant wages,” says Chudyk.

“This isn’t just about our members; it’s about the entire city. A strike will have ripple effects across Edmonton, impacting services that residents rely on daily, jeopardizing the safety of our citizens, and paralyzing industries. We do not take issuing this notice lightly. 

Chudyk adds that the last time CSU 52 went on strike was 1976.

“The Mayor and this council have been inaccessible and avoidant. The fact that we have come to this point clearly showcases their inexperience,” she explained.

“Leaders must take accountability and make tough decisions; ignoring the needs of your workforce for half a decade is not one of them. We implore Council and the City of Edmonton to take action, not just for the sake of our members, but for the well-being of all Edmontonians.”

City ‘disappointed’ by strike notice issue

The City of Edmonton responded to the strike notice within two hours of it being served, saying it was disappointed CSU 52 was unwilling to accept the latest offer.

“We put forward an offer that is compelling even in light of our current financial realities,” said Andre Corbould, city manager.

“We are prepared to respond to the labour disruption, and contingency plans are in place to minimize service disruptions. The safety and security of Edmontonians must remain our top priority. Effective immediately, these plans and the Emergency Operations Centre are being activated to ensure a coordinated approach to maintaining core services.”

The city notes that service for Edmonton Fire Rescue Services, Edmonton Transit Service, Dedicated Accessible Transit Service, snow clearing, waste collection, and construction on capital projects will continue.

If the strike goes ahead, Edmontonians will see an impact on services like recreation facilities, city attractions, 311, the Edmonton Service Centre, and building inspections and permits. Adding a complete list of services that are impacted can be viewed on the City of Edmonton website.

“The City remains committed to reaching an agreement with CSU 52. The offer presented to members is fair and equitable for members, the City, and taxpayers,” said Cyndil Taylor, acting chief people officer. “We are hopeful we can come to a resolution with the fewest program and service disruptions.”