64 workers at HopeGreyBruce Mental Health and Addictions Services have voted to join the Ontario Public Services Employees Union.
The agency operates out of several locations in Grey and Bruce Counties.
Hope Grey Bruce is a non profit agency that serves about 2000 clients a year with two addictions programs, and eight community mental health programs.
Chair of the OPSEU Mental Health Division Ed Avelin says the agency provides excellent mental health and addictions services, with staff dedicated to improving the well being of clients.
He says it is appropriate that they be more properly appreciated for their contributions to the agency and the community.
OPSEU President Warren (Smokey) Thomas was also heartened by the workers' choice.
"Every time a worker joins OPSEU, our mission as a union is reaffirmed," said Thomas. "Potential members look long and hard at our record. They see what we've done to improve job security. They see the gains in compensation and benefits. They see the workplace improvements made in terms of health and safety, equity, and anti-harassment measures."
He adds, "That's what unions do for workers – among many other things – and they know this is what they want for themselves, their co-workers, and their communities."
"So I warmly welcome our newest members with HopeGreyBruce Mental Health," Thomas continued. "I thank them for their confidence, and I promise them we'll work hard to extend to them what we've helped thousands of other workers achieve: a strong voice in the workplace, enhanced working conditions, and a better, more secure life for themselves and their families."
