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Unifor members at GATX Rail ratify new agreement
Members of Unifor Local 21-A at GATX Rail Canada in Red Deer, Alberta, have ratified a new four-year collective agreement with the company with 93% support of the membership during voting on Friday, July 12.
The new agreement brings significant improvements to wages, benefits, and working conditions, reflecting the strong efforts and commitment of the bargaining committee. The contract highlights are as follows:
Contract Highlights:
- Wage Increases: 14% over the life of the contract (5–3–3–3), retroactive to January 9, 2024.
- Shift Differential: Now $1.50 per hour for both afternoon and night shifts, representing a 50-cent hourly increase for afternoons and a 40-cent hourly increase for nights.
- Safety Boot Allowance: Increased by $90.
- Disability Benefits: Significant improvements to Short Term Disability Benefits and a $1000 monthly boost to Long Term Disability Benefits.
- Pension Contributions: Employer’s hourly contribution will rise from $2.50 per hour to $2.60 per hour, effective January 9, 2027.
- Grievance Procedure: Improved and streamlined arbitration process.
- Certification Program: Maintenance of Certification and Qualifications Program allowing members to maintain or re-qualify their job qualifications or certifications as needed.
The ratification of this agreement demonstrates the strong solidarity and collective power of Unifor members in negotiating substantial improvements in their working conditions and benefits.
The 63 members of Local 21-A are employed in various roles including welders, machinists, heavy-duty mechanics, and clerks, handling tasks at GATX’s Red Deer facility, one of six major service centres in North America.
The contract will expire on January 8, 2028.
