In a statement released Wednesday, city manager Art Zuidema said inside workers who cross the picket line will not face reprisals.
CUPE Local 101 has said employees who return to work could face consequences, but Zuidema, citing the Labour Relations Act, said in a release they have the right to return to work with no risk of being fired even if they're expelled from the union for their actions.
“The city wants to make its position on this very clear. We will require that our settlement with the union guarantees that no reprisals can be taken against our employees for exercising their legal rights.”
But CUPE Local 101 president Shelley Navarroli says the union's message to members was, "Not threats, it's merely pointing out to the members what the consequences are under our national constitution."
Zuidema added that he is disappointed by the union's statements and hopes the city's most recent offer will be shared with members.
Meanwhile Navarroli says if a deal is to include protection for workers who choose to cross the picket like, it is yet another on a long list of unresolved issues.
"That is something that would have to be discussed and agreed upon. I don't think he can be giving such guarantees before that happens."
The reassurances come as city hall confirms nearly 40 union members have crossed the picket line and returned to work.
CUPE Local 101 members were in a general meeting Wednesday and couldn't be reached for comment on the city's numbers, but it is likely to be top of mind among members.
