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Canada Cartage members at Unifor Local 222 in Oshawa, Ont. have ratified a new agreement, which includes wage increases of around 15% over four years.
“Congratulations to the bargaining committee for their outstanding work,” said Unifor National President Lana Payne. “This agreement continues the pattern of winning solid gains for our members throughout 2024.”
Canada Cartage is the sole-sourced provider of LCBO’s transportation/haulage for most of the Greater Toronto Area, north and central Ontario, and eastern Ontario. They deliver from the LCBO’s Whitby distribution centre to LCBO retail stores, grocery stores, and convenience stores.
Unifor Local 222 in Oshawa, Ont. represents approximately 115 members, working in classifications such as AZ driver, DZ driver, shunt driver, dock worker and maintenance.
The new contract also features improved shift premium, and the establishment of a new 'LCBO Premium' in recognition of the skills required as the primary logistics provider for Ontario's liquor industry.
Members will also have stronger protection language for bargaining unit work and major overtime improvements with all sixth and sevenths shifts being classified as overtime, whereas previously overtime didn’t begin until a worker reached 60 hours per week.
Local 222 President Jeff Gray said the biggest challenges with negotiating this deal was the risk of contract flipping from the LCBO, however, ratifying this contract now means members are better positioned during inflationary times.
“The bump in wages and reducing the time before our members reach overtime will benefit them at a time where they’re facing economic instability,” said Gray. “These members are specialized in being the main logistics provider for the province’s liquor industry. We’re glad to see they are being recognized for that.”
The contract will expire Nov. 3, 2028.
