Members of the Saugeen Shores Police Association have ratified new civilian and uniform collective agreements.
The term of both four-year agreements is from January 1st 2024 to December 31st 2027.
The percentages of yearly or hourly was increases for uniform police officers, special constables and jail guards are:
January 1, 2024 – 4.5 per cent
January 1, 2025 – 4.5 per cent
January 1, 2026 – 3.5 per cent
January 1, 2027 – 3.5 per cent
A release notes, civilian support staff will receive a $5,000 salary increase retroactive to January 1st, 2024, and then match the above increases starting January 1st, 2025.
Police say, “The improvement to wages was influenced by the changing nature of policing within Saugeen Shores and requirements within the Community Safety and Policing Act (April 1 2024) , both provincial policing and regional employment wage rates as well as a recognition of the physical and mental health supports of significance to members of the police service.”
Saugeen Shores Police Association President Ken Cook says in a statement , “I commend the Saugeen Shores Police Service Board for entering these negotiations with a true understanding of the current policing environment in Ontario. These negotiations were lengthy and addressed several items that were important to both sides. The police association appreciates the professionalism and effort demonstrated by the board throughout the process.”
Saugeen Shores Police Service Board Chair Diane Huber says, “I want to thank the association bargaining team for their thoroughness in representing the interests of their members while maintaining a collaborative and long-term approach toward the success of the police service’s vital role within our community.”
She adds, “These agreements go a long way toward ensuring that members stay healthy, happy, and right here with us as Saugeen Shores continues to be a great place to visit and an even better place to live and work in.”