City will continue to deliver services during strike by inside workers

The City of Saint John has redeployed managers and non-union staff to deliver critical services during the strike by inside workers represented by CUPE Local 486.

Citizens can be rest assured that there will be no interruption to emergency operations, including 911. Non-emergency public access to the Saint John Police Headquarters lobby at 1 Peel Plaza may experience disruptions during business hours; however, 24/7 emergency access remains available. The front doors of Peel Plaza will remain locked and access will be controlled.

The public can continue to contact the City of Saint John Customer Service Centre at (506) 658-4455 or by email at service@saintjohn.ca. However, all in-person customer service centres are closed until further notice. Calls are being prioritized based on urgency and need, however, the public should expect longer than usual wait times as phone lines are being disrupted by picketers. Citizens are encouraged to visit www.saintjohn.ca for self-service options, including online bill payments.

Citizens should expect some delays to all municipal service levels due to picketing activity. Updates will continue to be provided on the City’s website, saintjohn.ca.

The City of Saint John and the Board of Police Commissioners of the City of Saint John, negotiating as the employer, are committed to reaching a fair and responsible agreement with CUPE Local 486 that enables all parties to continue working together to deliver quality services to the people of Saint John.

Both the City and the Police Commissioners Board have met with CUPE Local 486 a total of 26 times since negotiations began in June 2022, including twice in July 2023 with a conciliator appointed by the province.