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The 19 members of Local 1944 at Adams & Knickle in the historic town of Lunenburg, Nova Scotia gathered inside a local art studio on August 13 and ratified a new collective agreement after being up against a lockout deadline.
“We fought hard for this group of workers, who wanted to see their base wages increase to keep their union advantage – and we got that deal,” said Unifor Atlantic Regional Director Jennifer Murray. “My congratulations to the bargaining committee, and my respect to this strong group of scallop harvesters for their solidarity and for the hard work they do at sea every day.”
The new agreement sees 10% wage increases over the life of the three-year agreement, effective January 1, 2024 to December 31, 2026, increased pension contributions, an increase in catch bonus, a $500 signing bonus, and full retro for both catch bonus and wages.
The crew operates the Maude Adams, a modern 40-metre scallop dragger, with 12-hour shift rotations while at sea for two weeks, followed by one week off at port.
Immediately following ratification, the crew loaded the vessel and set out for their two-week sail.
Negotiations began late last year and continued with the assistance of a government-appointed conciliator starting in July 2024.
