Protesters snarl morning commute at CFB Kingston, Collins Bay Prison as workers demand fair contract

Members of the Public Service Alliance of Canada (PSAC) were up bright and early Friday morning, voicing their frustration with the collective bargaining process.

PSAC members say many are still waiting to get paid properly under the flawed Phoenix payroll system.

June Winger, the national president of the Union of National Defence Employees (UNDE), tells Global News that she is worried the Liberal Government will call an election, and members will be left in the balance without a fair contract in place.

Dozens of demonstrators are out in full force at three gates at CFB Kingston holding signs and chanting, “Where’s our pay?” and “How long must we wait to get paid?” Over 100 picketers are in place at Collins Bay Prison.

Sharon D’Souza,  PSAC Regional Vice President, tells Global News Friday’s demonstration sends a strong message to Prime Minister Trudeau that the Liberal Government needs to have a clear mandate, and  be ready to bargain by next week.

D’Souza says some of the sticking points in contract negotiations include precarious work conditions,  an improved work-life balance, and wage discrepancies compared to the private sector. She says members also want to ensure the Phoenix payroll system is finally fixed.

Motorists faced delays along Highway 2 and  Highway 15 due to the demonstrations.

The group then took their message to midtown Kingston outside the constituency office of Mark Gerretsen on Princess street.  PSAC tells Global News that this picket serves as a final push before the two sides sit down Monday in Ottawa to try and work out a deal.