The following letter to the editor from CUPE Local 500 President Gord Delbridge is in response to Winnipeg Free Press Article – July 24 – Re: Privatization could cut overtime:councillor.
Dear Editor:
Privatizing city services is a short sighted and irresponsible approach to dealing with high levels of overtime in Winnipeg. Councillor Gillingham, who recently suggested privatization could reduce overtime, is in fact partially responsible for the high use of overtime hours, having proudly voted for $20.9 million in vacancy management in Winnipeg’s 2016 operating budget. In addition, city mechanics are already undervalued, causing a crisis in recruiting and retaining a strong workforce.
As the union that represents Winnipeg’s front line workers, we know the pressure being placed on our reduced workforce and it’s not fair: water main breaks still need fixing, trees need pruning, grass needs cutting, and the city’s fleet needs repairing.
We urge councillors like Gillingham to take responsibility and ensure adequate staffing levels in all city departments, rather than selling off our valuable public services.
Gord Delbrige
President, CUPE Local 500
