The union which represents workers with the city of Mount Pearl is holding council’s feet to the fire to ensure an investigation into the conduct of city manager Steve Kent is completed.
CUPE Local 2099 took to city hall yesterday amid rumors that the Steve Kent situation may be addressed during a budget meeting, and that the investigation into his conduct may be ended early and he be allowed to come back to work.
The union gave the results of a survey—completed in July—detailing how workers feel about the work culture with the city.
(Courtesy CUPE Local 2099.)
Of the respondents, 73 per cent say they worry complaints to management will result in repercussions or other negative retaliation, 60 per cent rated the mental health and safety climate as negative, and 48 per cent agreed that management does not treat staff with respect.
Kenneth Turner, Union President, says the investigation has been underway for three weeks and there is till a lot of work left to do. He says if Kent is allowed to return to work before the investigation is complete it will result in heightened anxiety for workers.
Turner says they have been dealing with these issues for months. He says they have spoken with labour management about the “distress and pressure” that has been felt. He says they have been dealing with the issue for “some time.”
Turner says they will be having discussions with council about the situation.
