Saskatchewan Crop Insurance Corporation workers commence job action

SGEU
June 2, 2011

On June 1, 2011, the union representing workers at the Saskatchewan Crop Insurance Corporation (SCIC) issued a directive on working hours.  The workers, who are in a legal strike position, issued the directive hoping to provide the incentive needed for management of SCIC to offer the workers a reasonable settlement.

Alan Evans, Co-chair of the Negotiating Committee said, “We are interested in reaching a negotiated settlement with SCIC.  We want to continue to provide the farmers of Saskatchewan with prompt and efficient delivery of their insurance requirements.  However, we cannot do this if we are not valued for our work.”

The directive delivered to all unionized workers advised that as of June 3 at 8:00 a.m. all bargaining unit members will work 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday to Friday.  Overtime and weekend hours will not be worked for the duration of the job action.

“SCIC employees have been offered 5.5 per cent over three years,” said Bob Bymoen, President of SGEU.  “This is the same offer that other workers involved in collective bargaining with this government have rejected.  The mandate of 5.5 per cent does not adequately compensate workers for their contribution to the Saskatchewan economy.”

SGEU represents approximately 520 SCIC employees working in the Agristability and Production Insurance programs in 21 locations across the province.  They have been out of a contract since September of 2009.

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