Projo Biz Blog

Building and grounds maintenance workers employed by Providence College have ratified a new four-year contract with the college this week. According to the Service Employees International Union, which represents the workers, the new contract calls for pay raises totaling 12 percent over the life of the contract. The old contract was set to expire at the end of June.

Union officials said other provisions in the contract include better sick day and vacation provisions and seniority protection in the event of lay-offs. Peter Rider, secretary-treasurer of SEIU Local 615, which represents workers in Rhode Island, Massachusetts and Connecticut, said about 40 employees are covered under the new agreement.

"I am particularly pleased there is a pay raise every year in this tough economic climate," said John Clancy, chief steward for the union at Providence College.

Another 50 workers at Providence College, who are employed by a subcontractor, ratified a separate five-year contract in 2008. Those workers, also represented by SEIU, had a three-day strike before reaching an agreement with the college.

 Tags  contract maintenance workers Providence College SEIU Local 615

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