Union proposes mediation as LLGAMH strike enters 10th week

The union says ongoing service disruptions are affecting vulnerable residents as local police continue to respond to high numbers of mental health-related calls and the Brockville HART Hub has yet to open

The strike involving OPSEU Local 441 workers at Leeds and Grenville Lanark District Health Unit Mental Health (LLGAMH) has entered its 10th week, with the union calling for mediation to help end the labour dispute.

The union says it proposed a mediation-arbitration process on Sunday using nationally recognized mediator William Kaplan, who has worked on several high-profile labour disputes. OPSEU says the process would provide a clear path toward restoring regular mental health and addiction services in Lanark and Leeds and Grenville.

According to the union, the agency responded Monday that it was not interested in pursuing the proposal.

Bargaining Team Chair Magean Plue said the agency's public comments about seeking a collaborative resolution do not match its approach during negotiations.

The union says ongoing service disruptions are affecting vulnerable residents as local police continue to respond to high numbers of mental health-related calls and the Brockville HART Hub has yet to open.

Plue urged the agency to accept mediation and work toward restoring services for the community.