Legal protest rallies last week outside correctional centres and courthouses once again drew public, government and media attention to the recruitment and retention crisis in our component.

Government rejected our proposal for a temporary market adjustment, but last week's protests show that members are prepared to continue to apply pressure. So too is your union.

There is only one way to solve the staffing problems we see in our workplaces. Excessive reliance on overtime is not working. The govern- ment's planned recruitment campaign will fail given the current labour market and higher salaries in other law enforcement agencies.
The government needs to close that salary gap.

Your component executive is meeting to discuss our options.

President Heyman has requested a meeting with the Deputy and Assistant Deputy Minister from the Public Service Agency. This meeting will take place on February 18th.

We will keep you informed of any developments.

Dean Purdy
Chair
Correctional and Sheriff Services
Component

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