TORONTO — Unionized WSIB workers who have been on strike since late May are back to work today after voting to accept the tentative collective agreement reached between the board and the Ontario Compensation Employees Union (OCEU).
“I am proud of my co-workers and the strength of our union. We are a critical safety net for Ontario workers and Ontarians spoke up, sending thousands of messages to the WSIB leadership,” said Harry Goslin, president of OCEU/CUPE 1750, in a statement. “Together, we were able to secure the best possible outcome and successfully pushed back against the employer’s attacks on union seniority rights.”
WSIB workers who are members of the OCEU, also known as Local 1750 of the Canadian Union of Public Employees, had been on strike since May 22. Numerous rallies were held at offices and at Queen’s Park throughout the strike.
At issue between the union and WSIB were wages, workloads and backlogs. Details of the agreement were not disclosed.
“Our number one priority has always been — and continues to be — helping the people who depend on us,” said Jeff Lang, president and CEO of the WSIB. “We do work that makes a difference in people’s lives and in our communities. I am proud of our team’s work the last few weeks and am very excited for everyone to come back together so we can keep supporting Ontarians who need us.”
As normal service resumes, the WSIB reports people can continue to log in to the WSIB’s website anytime, 24/7 to:
- Report an injury or illness
- Submit documents for an existing claim
- See claim, payment, and health benefit information in real time
- Register a new business
- Access clearances
