CUPE child care Local 5575 ratifies their first contract making historic gains
The members of CUPE child care Local 5575 have shown what workers can accomplish when they stand together in unity and solidarity.
After their employer cut their wages in 2024, workers organized collectively and successfully won union certification in January 2025.
Through more than a year and a half of determined bargaining, members remained united, supported one another, and refused to give up on their shared goal of achieving a fair first collective agreement.
Their perseverance paid off with a historic contract that delivers meaningful improvements to wages, benefits, and working conditions.
The first contract also includes enhanced vacation entitlements from 25 to 30 days for employees with 25 years of service, increased paid sick leave, annual professional development funding of $250, two hours of dedicated programming time, stronger severance protections, improved paid personal leave, and stronger language protecting members’ rights through the grievance process and anti-harassment language.
The agreement also provides paid time for bargaining preparation and negotiations, recognizing the important role members play in shaping their workplace. This victory demonstrates that when workers organize, stand united, and speak with one collective voice, they have the power to improve and build stronger workplaces.