In the course of negotiating the new collective agreement, the union and management became aware that some employees are being paid below the minimum salary rates in the current agreement. Shaw management proposed to adjust the salaries of those members affected going forward if we accept their latest offer to settle the new contract. Our view is that people who have been underpaid shouldn’t have to wait any longer for their rightful salary and should receive back pay to cover the time they have been underpaid.

We also filed a grievance after learning that Shaw had engaged an “intern” that was performing unpaid work in our bargaining unit. The Guild is not opposed to interns and internship programs; we participate in such programs in several other workplaces. However, the programs need to be properly organized for the benefit of the intern and to ensure safety and security in the workplace. “Interns” should not be used for free work. Interns require appropriate mentorship and cannot independently perform the work normally done by employees in our bargaining unit.

We expect to meet with management on both issues in the next couple of weeks. And remember: if you’re concerned that the collective agreement is not being respected, please talk to a member of the Guild executive.

For more information, please get in touch with Keith Maskell (keith@cmg.ca) at 416-591-5333.