The president of CUPE Newfoundland and Labrador is pushing back against the notion that giving workers in St. John’s a wage increase is to the detriment of taxpayers.
Earlier this week city council voted to ratify the new contract with local 1289.
The vote passed but two councillors did vote against – one of whom was Tom Davis.
Davis cited the increased costs for the city and fear that it would ultimately be downloaded onto taxpayers and businesses that are already struggling.
Sherry Hillier counters that when her members make a good wage they contribute to the local economy in positive ways.
She says their workers support the economic development of the city because they can afford to spend money at local businesses and pay their rent.
