Workers at a 14-unit congregate living facility on Bond Street in St. John’s for young people have voted unanimously to strike.

“The Lilly” is operated by the not-for-profit organization Choices for Youth and caters to vulnerable persons in that sector. The nine employees, represented by NAPE, are now in a legal strike position as they strive for a first contract.

The union says it has been almost two years since the bargaining unit voted to join the union as conciliation efforts have been unsuccessful.

Union President Jerry Earle says the employer has been unwilling to offer the workers a contract that is fair and acceptable.

Earle would prefer to reach an agreement without job action, but he accuses Choices for Youth of tactics more akin to union-busting and is asking them to reconsider their position.

He says the sticking point isn’t about pay—It’s about affording flexibility, fairness and respect.

In the event of strike action, it isn’t clear how the shelter will function. Choices for Youth likely has a contingency plan but it’s not known if the facility will remain open and operating at full capacity. The shelter can offer support for 10 to 12 individuals at a time.