Improved mental health benefits part of new deal for Oakville Transit workers
Published March 7, 2022 at 4:18 pm
A boost in pay for Oakville Transit workers isn’t the only benefit they will get in their new three-year deal with the Town of Oakville.
The new contract negotiated by Unifor Local 1256, the employees’ union, and the Town late last week will also see them get improved benefits and expanded mental-health coverage.
On top of the two per cent wage increase in each of the three years of the deal, workers will get a bump in vision from $400 to $450 annually.
Workers will also receive new coverage to the paramedical specialist benefit.
The current psychologist coverage has been replaced by a new sub-category for mental health.
Workers will receive up to $400 annually for visits to a psychologist, registered psychotherapist, social worker and clinical counsellor.
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“These are no small gains,” said Alice Kelly, president of Unifor Local 1256. “The new collective agreement is a terrific example that solidarity and collective action gets results.”
The new deal will also see 27 positions converted to full-time status.
The two week strike began on Feb. 17 and lasted two weeks before both sides ratified a new deal last Thursday.
The union represents 179 drivers and maintenance staff.
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