News Release – July 11, 2016
[Sooke, BC] The District of Sooke and CUPE Local 374 have successfully negotiated a five year Letter of Understanding to offer three EPCOR employees union positions when the current contract expires September 31, 2016, providing continuity in the operations of the wastewater collection system and treatment plant.
The District of Sooke and CUPE will partner with leading industry organizations such as the British Columbia Water and Wastewater Association and the Environmental Operator Certification Program to help provide hands on training for newly certified junior operators and operators who are upgrading their skills.
“This is a huge opportunity for the District of Sooke to lead the way in industry skills training in the Province of BC for waste water collection and treatment operations – particularly given the impending shortage of these professionals across North America” said Councillor Rick Kasper who lead the transition team’s efforts.
CAO Teresa Sullivan said, “Sooke is uniquely positioned in the Greater Victoria area to provide skills training in this area as we expect another treatment plant to be built in the near future.”
Mayor and Council of the District of Sooke are thrilled this portion of the transition is complete and that the District is on track with the savings identified earlier this year – approximately $1.2 million over the next five years.
Media Contact:
Teresa Sullivan
Chief Administrative Officer
District of Sooke
Tel: (250) 642-1634
Email: tsullivan@sooke.ca
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