TORONTO, January 9, 2009--Statement of Lyndon Koopmans, co-organizer of YorkNotHostage, in response to York University’s request for a supervised ratification vote: Today York University announced that it is requesting the Minister of Labour to hold a supervised ratification vote on its most recent settlement offer to CUPE Local 3903. YorkNotHostage is neutral regarding the substance of the bargaining. We will not take a stand on wages, benefits, working conditions, or any other part of the university’s latest offer to the union. However, we are not neutral on the strike. The strike has dragged on for far too long already. Not only does it have devastating consequences for students, but at this point it threatens the school year. Students need the strike to end soon. We urge the Minister of Labour not to waste any time organizing the supervised ratification vote. Please organize the vote as quickly as possible. YorkNotHostage has two messages for the members of CUPE Local 3903. First, get out and vote. A high turnout will ensure that the vote is decisive and legitimate. Make sure your friends and colleagues in the union cast a ballot. Call them, e-mail them, and bring them with you to the voting location. Second, the question you ask when marking your ballot should not be, “If we stay out on strike, will we get more?” Some union literature suggests that members should vote no in order to get a better offer later. This is irresponsible and wrong. This strike has caused a lot of harm to student. Every new day of the strike hurts students even more. Do not prolong the strike even further because you think you can get a little more. Instead, vote your conscience. The ballot question must be, “Is this a fair and reasonable offer?” If you believe it is, you must vote Yes. If you believe it is not, then of course you will vote No. - 30 -
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