City and CUPE 15 reach agreement on Ray-Cam

VANCOUVER, August 1, 2007 - In an agreement brokered by the Labour Relations Board today, the City of Vancouver and CUPE 15 have reached an agreement that will allow several services to be reinstated at Ray-Cam Co-operative Centre. CUPE 15 pickets will be removed.

Special needs children will continue to be served for the duration of the job action taken by employees represented by CUPE 15. In addition, Ray-Cam Co-operative Centre will be able to offer daycare; summer children's programs; and provide a meals program.

"We're very pleased that Ray-Cam will be able to reinstate these services for children and families in the Downtown Eastside," states Susan Mundick, General Manger, Vancouver Park Board. "However, it's unfortunate that job action will continue to affect thousands of other children and families across the city."

Ray-Cam is located in the Downtown Eastside at East Hastings Street and Raymur Avenue. Started as a food co-op in the early 1970s, the facility has evolved into a social, cultural, recreational, and educational centre with a focus on children, youth and families. It is operated in partnership with a committed Community Association.

Media contact:

Susan Mundick
General Manager, Vancouver Board of Parks and Recreation

For more information contact Joyce Courtney, Manager of Communications, at 604-257-8699.
www.vancouverparks.ca

The Vancouver Board of Parks and Recreation maintains 200 parks and 40 major facilities throughout the City of Vancouver. The Park Board's mission is to provide, preserve and advocate for parks and recreation services to benefit people, communities and the environment.