Strike Votes: Frequently Asked Questions
Bargaining units in the Worth Fighting For campaign have been taking coordinated bargaining actions to advance our key demands. By working together, we are stronger. So far, more than 70 OPSEU/SEFPO and CUPE Ontario bargaining units have filed for conciliation. The next step is taking coordinated strike votes to show we have the support of our members, and we are ready to strike if we need to.
Bargaining units are coordinating strike votes over a three-week period, starting September 29.
Why are we taking a strike vote?
All bargaining units in the Worth Fighting For campaign have put forward coordinated bargaining proposals, including a permanent, retroactive 6.5% catch-up wage increase. Our wages were unfairly suppressed by the Ford government’s Bill 124, which was struck down as unconstitutional in 2022. Other workers in sectors such as Hospitals, School Boards, Colleges, the LCBO and the Ontario Public Service have received the wage increases they were owed. We are putting pressure on our collective funder, the Ford government, to fix this issue and give workers what we deserve. To prevent further layoffs and cuts to services, we are also pushing for stable funding for these wage increases to protect our jobs and our services into the future.
By filing for conciliation in a mass action, we’ve sent a clear message that this is not bargaining as usual. Workers are united in this fight because we know that we – and the services we provide – are worth fighting for. Now, by taking strike votes, we are continuing to show we are united and escalating our campaign.
Why should I vote YES?
Vote YES to win. A high-participation, strong YES vote will support your bargaining teams and show the Ford government that they have full strength of the membership behind them: not only your bargaining unit, but the more than 70 bargaining units across OPSEU/SEFPO and CUPE Ontario that are taking coordinated bargaining action. All locals in the Worth Fighting For campaign are taking coordinated strike votes.
We need everyone to vote YES for a strong strike mandate. We are stronger, together.
Does taking a strike vote mean we’re going out on strike?
No, taking a strike vote doesn’t necessarily mean you are going on strike. It gives your local bargaining team the power to call for a strike, if the demand isn’t met. But before then, it puts Doug Ford on notice that this is a real possibility and is your power to make your demand heard.
What happens after the strike vote?
After a strike vote, bargaining and conciliation can continue. Taking a strike vote doesn’t necessarily mean you are going on strike.
At least one day of conciliation must happen for a bargaining unit to ask for a “No Board” Report from the Conciliation Officer, which triggers the countdown to a strike. It takes about a week to issue a No Board Report, and once one is issued, there is a 17-day countdown to a strike deadline.
How will this strike affect my clients and people we support?
Every worker who delivers vital community and social services cares deeply about the people they serve. That’s why we’re taking this stand – for ourselves, for our co-workers, and for our clients and people we support. We don’t want a strike, and we don’t want disruptions to services. However, Doug Ford’s government has given Bill 124 remedial wage increases to virtually everyone else who delivers public services. Denying us the same fairness leaves workers struggling. We cannot accept responsibility for the government’s refusal to do the right thing.
This unconstitutional wage cap – and the government’s chronic underfunding – has harmed our clients and continues to do so. Workers are forced to do more with less, and it has created a recruitment and retention crisis.
By standing strong now, we make it more likely that we will achieve the improvements needed to protect workers, our services and our clients.
Can I participate in a strike while on a study or work permit?
Yes. It is legal for non-citizens legally permitted to work in Canada to participate in a legal strike. Further, it is a protected activity under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Under the law, you cannot be punished by the employer for participating in strike duties or showing support for the Union during contract negotiations.
Participating in a legal strike should not affect your study or work permit, nor should it impact your immigration status. However, you should still ensure that you are abiding by the terms of your study or work permit and ensure that your permit is not expired.
When will the strike vote take place? How can I vote?
Most participating bargaining units are taking coordinated strike votes in and around the weeks of September 29 and October 16. Some bargaining units have already completed their strike votes and some will take their vote outside of this period, but taking votes together is a powerful collective action. Each bargaining unit will select how they want to take their strike vote – online, or in person. Your Bargaining Team will provide details on how and when the vote will happen.
Who is eligible to vote?
Everyone at your work site (full-time, part-time, temporary and casual) who are OPSEU/SEFPO members is eligible to vote.
How much is strike pay and how does it work?
OPSEU’s strike pay is $450/week for the first 3 weeks then $550/week in the fourth week and beyond (dependents paid at $125/week each).
To receive the maximum strike pay, individuals must complete 20 hours of picket duties.
Strike pay is administered via Direct Deposit, which is why it’s important to update your information on the OPSEU/SEFPO members portal. Individuals who do not have direct deposit set up, they will be paid via cheque.
Who counts as a dependent for strike pay?
A dependent family member is defined as:
- A child under 18 (or under 26 if attending school full time) or a dependent child as defined by the collective agreement or benefit plan.
- A non-income earning spouse (excluding a spouse on strike).
- A disabled family member.
- An elderly family member who normally receives financial support from a striking member.
If both spouses are on strike, both may claim their dependents.