WSIB and CUPE Local 1750 reach tentative deal after 6-week strike. Ratification vote expected soon; services to resume following approval.
Tentative Agreement Ends Weeks-Long Labour Dispute
The Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) and the Ontario Compensation Employees Union (OCEU), also known as CUPE Local 1750, have reached a tentative agreement after more than 3,600 workers walked off the job in late May. The strike, which began on May 22, revolved around demands for improved wages, job security, and workload safety.
Strike Impact Felt Across Ontario Workplaces
The labour disruption affected the WSIB’s ability to provide services to over 5.3 million workers and more than 300,000 employers across Ontario. During the strike, public access to services such as injury reporting, claim updates, and health benefit information was limited, although digital channels remained operational.
Announcement Comes via Weekend Statement
WSIB announced the tentative deal in a news release on Saturday, stating that it expects its full workforce to return within 24 hours of a successful ratification vote. “Our team is committed to delivering better, easier, and faster service to Ontarians,” said WSIB President and CEO Jeff Lang, thanking the public for its patience throughout the labour disruption.
Union Signals Progress on Key Demands
While neither party has disclosed the full terms of the agreement, CUPE 1750 president Harry Goslin confirmed in a Friday statement that meaningful progress had been made. The union emphasized priorities such as reducing outsourcing, improving workload safety, and securing investment in frontline staff.
Next Steps: Awaiting Ratification Vote
Details of the agreement will remain confidential until union members conduct a ratification vote in the coming days. If approved, WSIB services are expected to resume fully and immediately. Both sides expressed optimism about the resolution and a renewed commitment to service delivery.
Public Services Remain Accessible Online
Even as in-person staffing returns, WSIB has reminded Ontarians that services such as injury reporting, document submissions, and business registrations remain accessible through its online portal.
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