WEST CARLETON – The two St. Michaels’ Catholic schools in West Carleton will be closed if the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) membership goes on strike Monday (Oct. 7).

“Yesterday, the provincial union representing CUPE gave notice they will be on strike as of Monday, Oct.  7 if a deal is not reached at the provincial bargaining table,” the Ottawa Catholic School Board (OCSB) released in a statement this afternoon (Oct. 3). “On a hopeful note, the parties that are meeting provincially have agreed to continue bargaining this Friday and over the weekend to try and avoid strike action.”

However, if a strike by CUPE does occur, all Ottawa Catholic schools (K-12) will be closed for students as of Monday, Oct. 7.

“This decision came about following careful deliberation,” the OCSB said. “CUPE represents approximately 1,300 full-time employees and nearly 1,000 casual workers in the OCSB. We did not feel we could safely operate our schools without their services.”

CUPE employees include educational assistants (EAs), early childcare educators (ECEs), office administrators (OAs), library technicians, learning technology technicians, full-time adult ESL Instructors and a number of central board staff.

If, as of Sunday night, the parties do not settle, the following will take place:

• The Ottawa Student Transportation Authority (OSTA) will cancel all transportation for Ottawa Catholic schools
• All schools will be closed for students

“We are committed to keeping you informed,” the OCSB said. “As soon as we have an update, a second message will be sent to parents on Sunday evening using School Messenger to update you regarding the outcome of the provincial negotiations. Thank you for your continued prayers, patience, and understanding.”