Sask. legal aid lawyers and staff receive new contract
A new agreement announced by CUPE 1949 and Saskatchewan Legal Aid Commission is being described as progressive and precedent-setting for employees delivering services to some of the province’s most vulnerable people.
“As staff at Legal Aid, we know first-hand how important the work we do is in supporting and securing access to justice in our communities,” said Julia Quigley, president of CUPE 1949. “We are proud to have reached an agreement that recognizes the importance of Legal Aid staff and creates real incentives for them to continue doing their important work.”
The new collective agreement improves wages and working conditions for staff, but also includes important targeted provisions.
Lawyers and articling students will receive a market supplement to bring them closer to those of the Government of Saskatchewan Crown Prosecutors. The agreement also expands vacation options, increases and expands health benefits to temporary staff and introduces an Employee Family Assistance Plan for all staff.