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- calendar_today November 2, 2026
Unionized Child Care Workers Return to Work After Prolonged Lockout
Unionized child care workers at several Toronto centres will return to work this week after reaching a tentative agreement with non-profit employer Ideal Child Services Group (ICSG), ending a lockout that lasted nearly a month.
Background: Lockout Began on October 5
The dispute began on October 5, when ICSG locked out staff members after failed contract negotiations. The closures forced families to seek alternative child care arrangements, while employees took to the picket lines in response. According to CUPE Local 2484, which represents the workers, the lockout started just 15 minutes before a strike deadline.
Details of the New Tentative Agreement
The tentative deal was accepted by union members in a vote on Sunday. The agreement, as outlined in a news release issued Monday, features several key provisions: wage increases for child care staff, the establishment of a pension plan, and additional protections for injured workers. These terms were the product of weeks of negotiations following the lockout.
Union Reaction: Pride and Relief
Jess Tomas, president of CUPE Local 2484, voiced pride in members' solidarity during the dispute. "We’re proud of the strength and solidarity our members have shown throughout this lockout," Tomas said. Expressing relief over the outcome, Tomas added, "This has been a difficult time for members and their families, and we’re pleased to have reached a tentative agreement. Our members look forward to getting back to work, doing what they do best: caring for and educating children and supporting the families in their communities."
Next Steps: Centres to Reopen This Week
Following the approval of the tentative agreement, the affected child care centres are scheduled to reopen to families and staff later in the week. CBC Toronto has reached out to ICSG for comment on the agreement. In earlier communications, ICSG stated that the lockout was related to the union's withdrawal of bargaining unit services and that the centres closed at 12:01 a.m. on October 5. The specific child care centres impacted included those under ICSG's operation, such as BonAdventure Child Care Centre.
Looking Ahead
The new contract, which addresses key concerns such as wage increases, a pension plan, and worker protections, marks a significant development for unionized child care workers in Toronto. The reopening of the centres is expected to provide relief to both educators and the families who rely on their services.
Source: cbc.ca.
