New Contract Negotiations Stalled at The Gathering Place

ST. JOHN’S, Newfoundland and Labrador--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Almost a full year into bargaining their first contract, employees at The Gathering Place are moving to conciliation. The Gathering Place is a community health centre serving vulnerable groups in St. John’s, including those needing physical and mental health support, low-income earners or people experiencing homelessness or food insecurity.

“We know that the goal of providing exceptional service to The Gathering Place’s clients and the vulnerable communities they serve, is one that both workers and the employer share,” said Debbie Turner, National Representative with the Canadian Union of Public Employees. “We’ve been at the bargaining table since March of 2024 and feel confident that conciliation can help us move things forward.”

Workers at The Gathering Place unionized with the CUPE in October 2023, forming Local 5478. These workers provide complex supports to vulnerable members of the community and sometimes work with a high risk of violence or other health and safety concerns.

“We are firm in our position that Local 5478 members have the right to a safe and secure work environment, and that they deserve to be appropriately compensated for the unique and challenging work that they do,” continued Turner.

CUPE 5478 members include social workers, administrative and maintenance workers, kitchen staff, dental assistants, and guest support and empowerment staff. They work seven days a week, both during the day and overnight, supporting residents in the emergency shelter and transitional and supportive housing programs.

The Gathering Place has recently been able to expand the critical services that Local 5478 provide, and the organization has nearly doubled in size as a result. Last year, the overnight shelter expanded to include a second facility, the Mercy House, which has increased capacity in the overnight shelter from having space for 30 residents to 90.

“CUPE 5478 members are dedicated to their work,” said Sherry Hillier, CUPE Newfoundland & Labrador President. “They believe in the service they provide; they care for the communities they serve, and they want to keep providing this important service to St. John’s.”

:bw/cope-491