Regional outside workers officially on strike as negotiations stalled

CUPE Local 1656 is officially on strike as of Monday morning after failing to reach an agreement with the Region of Waterloo.

The union represents around 150 regional outside workers.

The two sides have been at the bargaining table since Feb. 10, but negotiations have stalled and the picket lines will be set up.

The strike won’t disrupt all services. According to the local union, curbside garbage collection, road maintenance and water services will all continue as usual.

Region of Waterloo Waste Management Centres in Cambridge and Waterloo will be closed to all residential and commercial customers.

The local union also aids in getting planes at Region of Waterloo International Airport off of the ground, but they say no flights will be impacted as a result of strike action. However, officials are telling people to leave earlier due to possible delays from picket lines.

“Travelers are advised to allow an extra hour when arriving to account for potential traffic delays at the main entrance on Fountain Street,” the Region of Waterloo said in a release.  

CUPE 1656 Chief Steward Mike Hepditch joined the picket line at the airport on Monday morning.

“Morale is great, you know all of our 1656 members are in great spirits, we’re hoping to get a deal, hoping to get management and council back to the table soon.”

The Region of Waterloo said its committed to reaching an agreement that’s competitive for workers and affordable for residents.

According to Waterloo Regional Police, strike action is causing significant delays in the area of Fountain Street North and Airport Road. They’re asking residents to find an alternate route if possible.