The Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) is condemning the City of Saskatoon’s plan to transfer control of the Harry Bailey Aquatic Centre to a third-party group following renovations.

CUPE 59, which represents municipal workers at the City of Saskatoon, says the union was not adequately consulted or notified about this major operational change. Instead, the city informed employees directly – a violation of the employer’s obligation to communicate such changes through the union.

“This is completely unacceptable,” said Eric Calaguian, president of CUPE 59. “The city is making major decisions about our members’ jobs and public recreation services without any consultation. These workers deserve respect, and the community deserves transparency.”

CUPE warns that contracting out the operation of the Harry Bailey Aquatic Centre could lead to job losses and a reduction in service quality for residents.

“Public services belong in public hands,” said Kent Peterson, president of CUPE Saskatchewan. “Turning over control of community facilities to outside organizations weakens public accountability. CUPE will fight to protect our members’ jobs and the public services families rely on.”

CUPE 59 members attended today’s city council standing policy committee meeting to show their support for keeping the Harry Bailey Aquatic Centre publicly operated.

CUPE represents over 2,100 municipal workers who provide vital public services at the City of Saskatoon.

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