Nearly 500 employees at the Children’s Aid Society of Toronto (CAS) are on the brink of a strike as 82% of union members voted overwhelmingly in favor of walking off the job.
The workers, represented by CUPE Local 2316, have taken a significant step towards a potential strike by filing a “no board” report on Monday. This initiates a countdown towards the union’s legal strike position as soon as February 13, 2026.
The union has formally informed CAS Toronto about the current working conditions that are hindering workers from meeting their obligations under the Child, Youth and Family Services Act.
CAS Toronto primarily focuses on providing child protection services and investigating reports of child abuse or neglect. However, the union highlights issues such as burnout, job reductions, and cuts to essential programs leading to gaps in service delivery and posing increased risks to children. The union attributes these challenges to years of inadequate funding at the provincial level.
Aubrey Gonsalves, President of CUPE Local 2316, emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “Our members are exhausted, services are being severely affected, and the employer has not taken steps to address the staffing crisis.”
Gonsalves added, “The current situation is unsustainable and unsafe for both workers and the children, youth, and families we serve. While we are dedicated to our clients, we can no longer operate under these conditions.”
The union is urging the provincial government to promptly increase funding for child welfare services. Furthermore, it is calling on CAS Toronto to engage in discussions that tackle workload, staffing, and service provision to avert a strike and ensure adequate support for children and families.
Despite attempts to reach out to Ontario’s Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services for a statement, CityNews did not receive a response.