CFI :: A Message To All Colleagues

As you all know- we are preparing for a strike and the Courts are aware of that. The Region is predicting when and for how long and there are many unfounded rumors.

Not surprisingly the Courts are trying to hire extra interpreters. We have received many questions from independent contractors- certified and non-certified interpreters- that support us and want to honor our strike.

FIRST, THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!

We cannot provide any public information at this time about the timing of the strike. However in response to your questions we can offer this information:

1. When we go on strike we will contact all interpreters- including contractors of all types and languages and we will ask that you honor the strike and not cross the picket line. You will hear directly from us. In the meantime, there is no reason not to accept assignments.

2. You can cancel your work without penalty with 24-hour notice.

3. You can also cancel with less notice if, once a strike is called, your conscience dictates that you not cross a picket line. During our last strike several interpreters did that right from the sidewalk when they found out we were on strike.

We are all interpreters. We are fighting for professional standards and fair distribution of work. Please remember our walkouts of the past and realize that we are strongest in unity. Our efforts will benefit everyone and eventually impact private sector rates too.

We are preparing to go out for as long as it takes. A strike with full support from the interpreter community will strengthen us all, resolve the issues faster and allow everyone to get back to work as quickly as possible.

Please also rest assured that, even as we prepare for the strike, we are ready, able and willing to settle the remaining issues with the Region the moment they are willing to sit down with us and cooperatively hammer out a fair resolution that addresses our needs.

Again, thank you all for your great support and determination! Please feel free to contact us any time if you have questions.

PS- To employees and contractors: Coordinators may ask you directly if you will work during the strike. Here are some handy ways to respond- take your pick: 1) Of course not, I would never cross a picket line; 2) As far as I know interpreters are not on strike right now, and I am available to work. 3) I will cross that bridge when I come to it. 4) I sure hope the Region makes a good faith effort to settle this so I don’t have to make that decision.