Cape Breton childhood educators ratify new deal after three-week strike

A group of nearly two dozen early childhood educators at Munro Academy in Sydney Mines, N.S., has ratified its first collective agreement following a three-week strike.

The 23 workers went on strike on Sept. 8, seeking 40-hour work weeks following a year of bargaining. According to Unifor, which represents the workers, the new three-year collective agreement secured the desired work weeks.

“Bargaining a first contract requires a huge amount of work and this crew is to be celebrated for their commitment to each other and to the kids they care for every day,” said Unifor Atlantic regional director Jennifer Murray in a news release. “These Local 4600 members built the union and showed that we can win when we organize and stand together in solidarity.”

The release notes the new deal includes additional vacation allowance, paid education leave, increase sick days and a women’s advocate.

The workers are expected to return to Munro Academy on Monday.

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