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Unifor Local 1106 members at Traverse Independence in Kitchener have ratified a new 3-year collective agreement resulting in several significant improvements for members.
“One of the major challenges the union faced during the negotiations was securing wage increases amid stagnant government funding,” said Unifor Ontario Regional Director, Samia Hashi. “This agreement highlights the strength and solidarity of our members, ensuring they are recognized and rewarded for their dedication and hard work.”
Members are set to receive fair wage increases over the course of the three-year agreement. In a unique provision, the contract includes language that allows for the reopening of negotiations regarding wages and benefits in years two and three if there is an increase in government funding.
“The government’s lack of increased funding over the years made securing a fair wage increase extremely difficult,” said Unifor Local 1106 President, Ray Souto. “However, the determination and unity of our members ensured that we could push back against the employer’s attempts to force an unfavourable deal.”
Additionally, new Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) language has been secured, providing income protection for members facing delays in claim approvals, allowing them to apply for sick leave pay if their WSIB claim exceeds one pay period in processing.
The agreement, effective from April 1, 2024, to March 31, 2027, covers 97 members who work in various capacities, including attendant care, life skills facilitators, community facilitators and behavioural facilitators.
