Community social services

A new poll conducted for The Roundtable of Provincial Social Service Organizations confirms British Columbians support for restoring funding to community social services. According to the Angus Reid poll, 65 per cent of British Columbians surveyed agreed current funding levels are too low for community social services such as daycare; seniors care, employment services, supports to families and children, help...

Bargaining for the community social services sector contract resumed this week, but quickly stalled. Josef Rieder represents HSA at the bargaining table, with HSA bargaining team chair Lynn Kelsey. -In the absence of meaningful discussion that could lead to an agreement, the Community Social Services Bargaining Association has asked the employer for dates to begin discussion on essential service levels,"...

The union bargaining committee for community social services workers met this week to prepare for bargaining resuming next week. Josef Rieder represents HSA at the bargaining table, with HSA bargaining team chair Lynn Kelsey. -Were looking forward to working with employers to reach a fair settlement that improves the working life and conditions of our members," he said. -We hope...

This week, the Community Social Services Employers Association requested that the unions rescind all monetary proposals. The unions have not yet responded to this request. The employers are still insisting on the provincial governments ‘zero financial mandate. Both sides are scheduled to meet seven more days through the end of the month.The union bargaining committee remains committed to achieving meaningful...

On Tuesday, the union bargaining committee for community social services workers met with the employers group to discuss proposals tabled in May. The Community Social Services Employers Association (CSSEA) tabled a concessionary package offering no monetary gains. Josef Rieder represents HSA at the bargaining table, with HSA bargaining team chair Lynn Kelsey. -CSSEA says the Liberal government is forcing them...

The union bargaining committee for community social services workers met with the employers group this week in Richmond. The union bargaining committee tabled a comprehensive package of proposals aimed at making gains and restoring rights after years of cuts and concessions. Among other demands, the committee is seeking better sick leave provisions and wage parity with the community health sector...

The Community Social Services Bargaining Association (CSSBA) is urging the employer group, the Community Social Services Employers Association (CSSEA), to commence bargaining on Thursday, May 13, 2010 in Richmond. The CSSBA expects the first meeting will entail establishing a protocol agreement and setting dates and locations for a full exchange of proposals for the Community Living Services and General Services...

No new contractHSA has learned that members may be hearing rumours that a tentative collective agreement has been reached between the unions and employers in the community social services sector. -These are just rumours," said HSA President Reid Johnson. -Last fall, negotiations were undertaken, but the talks collapsed December 17. While there have been informal discussions, there is no bargaining...

Reminder for Victoria-area members: Members on the island are invited to participate in the -Walk for Community Social Services" planned for Victoria on March 27. The walk celebrates the vital role of community social services. City: Victoria, BC Date: Saturday, March 27 Time: Gather at Centennial Square at 10:30am; wrap-up BBQ at noon A poster and pre-registration information are attached...

(This information applies to HSA members of the Community Social Services Bargaining Association.) A professional development education fund announced in November is still available to HSA members in the community social services sector. Applications are due March 31, 2010. Professional development that could be considered for funding includes: Obtaining or upgrading a credential (eg certificate, diploma, baccalaureate, masters) Upgrading diplomas...