With bargaining stalled at seven crown corporations in Saskatchewan, Unifor has launched a new, highly visible campaign in Regina and Saskatoon.

“We are turning up the heat on the government and the crowns to settle this and give our members what they deserve – a fair collective agreement,” said Western Regional Director Joie Warnock.

Billboards are up all over Regina (including right next to SaskTel) and Saskatoon and the message takes direct aim at the government.  ‘Premier Moe and MLAs got a 2.3% pay increase. If it’s good enough for you, it’s good enough for me.’

Unifor member and SaskTel employee Jaime Sorrell is featured on the billboard. Her look of steely determination represents many Unifor members who are frustrated the government is dragging out the bargaining process.

The airwaves are also being blanketed by ads delivering a similar message in both cities. Listen to it on SoundCloud here.

Unifor workers at all seven crown corporations will be in a legal strike position in July.

“The Premier needs to get serious about negotiations to avoid a major disruption in Crown services,” said Unifor President Jerry Dias. “The province is trying to cut costs on the backs of workers who have helped the Crowns be successful and strengthen Saskatchewan’s economy.”

Following an increase in provincial revenues, MLAs received a pay hike. Their basic annual income rose to $111,000 in April, a 2.3% increase. The government is attempting to impose another wage freeze on Crown employees.

Five thousand Unifor members work at SaskTel, SaskEnergy, SaskPower, SaskWater, the Saskatchewan Water Security Agency, Directwest and SecurTek.  All have expired collective agreements.