Unifor asks SaskTel members for a strike mandate

The union representing around 3,000 SaskTel employees has asked members to vote on a strike mandate.

In an update to members on Thursday, Unifor explained voting to strike would give the bargaining committee a stronger position and the ability to enact strike action if necessary.

“We find ourselves in a situation where the company (SaskTel) is unwilling to negotiate or even put a monetary package on the table,” the update said. “We are trying to make improvements to job security, mental health and compensation.”

Unifor pointed out that while it struggles to secure raises for workers the premier and MLAs received cost of living increases.

The union has scheduled mediation on July 10 and 11.

Members last contract expired back in march 2019.

Unionized SaskTel workers haven’t gone on strike since 1996. That strike lasted three weeks.