June 6, 2008

Hon. George Smitherman
Minister of Health and Long Term Care
Legislative Assembly
Queen’s Park
Toronto M7A 1A6

Dear Minister:

I am writing to share with you my serious concerns about the management of funds at the Grey Bruce Health Unit in Owen Sound.

As I am sure you know, 27 members of my union have been on strike at the Health Unit since May 1. These are the office and clerical staff, who work with each of the key public health programs in the community, keeping people safe from rabies, bird flu, West Nile Virus, contaminated tap and beach water, and much more.

After speaking to these workers, I heard a variety of concerns about the way the health unit manages its money. Further, I am convinced that the Board of Health has not been given the correct facts about the reasons for the strike and what is on the table, and how it compares.

Despite the important work they do, the GBHU refuses to provide pay and benefits to these individuals that is commensurate with the work they perform and with the compensation in nearby jurisdictions, or the pay for similar work locally. They are 15 per cent behind their comparators.

It might only cost a few thousand dollars to resolve this strike now -- about the cost of the brand new furniture for the extravagant new building GBHU has built by the lakeshore. At least $20 million has been budgeted for this building, dubbed the 'copper elephant' by local media. Plus, the Medical Officer of Health earns almost $200,000 - six times what our members earn -- and top staff have received average wage increases of 14 per cent.

The whole community is concerned. Meanwhile, another bargaining unit at GBHU is in conciliation.

I am asking you as minister to look into the management of the finances at GBHU, perhaps by means of a forensic audit.

The office and clerical members of OPSEU at GBHU provide a key service. They want to get back to work. They’re worth it!

Sincerely,

Warren (Smokey) Thomas, President

cc. Warden, County of Bruce; Warden, County of Grey; Chair, GB Board of Health; Opposition Critics

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