Relations between Mount Pearl and the striking workforce are deteriorating with the mayor alleging disrespectful conduct by some of the picketers.

The 200-plus workers have been on strike for a week but the two parties are not at the bargaining table.

Mayor Dave Aker says picketing has gone beyond what’s acceptable, and he’s calling on CUPE Local 2099 to tone things down. He told VOCM Open Line with Tim Powers that some members are harassing female managers and taking pictures of them even off city property.

Mayor Aker says some of the women are becoming worried and are nervous. He says once city managers leave City Hall and clear the property, they should be able to return to their vehicles in peace.

CUPE Response

CUPE Local President Ken Turner says the first he heard of filming of city managers was Wednesday morning on VOCM Open Line.

He notes that the city has hired security and they are taking video of the area pretty much all the time. He adds that had a complaint been filed, the union would have dealt with it immediately.

Many sports and recreation programs have been cancelled because of the strike.