The union representing workers at the Sarnia Public Library and Art Gallery says they're facing uncertainty after the County of Lambton imposed a bargaining deadline of 11:59 p.m. Wednesday.
Contract negotiations have been ongoing with circulation clerks, gallery assistants, and maintenance staff, since the last collective agreement expired at the end of 2019.
Unifor Local 65 President Tim Nolan said now isn't the time to be imposing harsh and unfair concessions.
"Our members contribute so much to our community and have worked hard to maintain access to the vital public services our library and gallery provide," said Nolan. "Lambton County is trying to ram through harsh concessions at a time when workers are already hurting. Using these kinds of underhanded tactics during an unprecedented pandemic and economic crisis is fundamentally wrong and I believe Sarnians will agree. It’s time for the county to drop these unreasonable concessions immediately and negotiate a fair contract with our members."
Nolan said the ongoing pandemic has forced the library and gallery to close its doors to the public while workers continue to provide curbside and remote access to its services.
Lambton County Corporate Services GM Stephane Thiffeault said the parties are entering their third day of conciliation on Wednesday.
"There are a number of outstanding issues between the parties," said Thiffeault. "They'll be meeting with the intent and objective to reach a new agreement that takes into account enhancements to public services, operational needs, fiscal realities, and good labour relations."
Thiffeault said there's always the chance an agreement won't be reached.
"In the event that no agreement is reached, I think the parties will have to have some sort of understanding amongst each other as to the next step," he said. "We fully appreciate and understand that the union can withhold its labour effective at 12:01 a.m. Thursday, February 11. If they choose to go down that route, we'll of course respect their rights to do so."
Unifor Local 65 represents 30 workers at the Sarnia Public Library and Art Gallery.
