Bargaining

Unifor members at Swipe Jobs strike to improve poverty wages

The 71 members of Local 222 who work for the agency Swipe Jobs – which is on contract to Del Monte Fresh in Oshawa, Ont. to supply workers – are on strike to fight for a living wage.

“Del Monte has contracted out Swipe Jobs to provide workers at their facility, all the while not taking responsibility for the subpar wages and lack of benefits, making it impossible for our members to make a decent living,” said Unifor National President Lana Payne.

RailLine Volume 11 – Issue 2

Autoport Eastern Passage workers prepare for potential strike action

Dear Members,

The bargaining team at Autoport Eastern Passage has been actively engaged in discussions with our employer since September 28, 2023. Our existing collective agreement concluded on December 31, 2023.

RailLine Volume 11 – Issue 1

Tentative Agreement Reached at CNTL

Dear Members,

We're excited to share that we've reached a preliminary agreement for a new collective bargaining contract for nearly 1,000 of our members at CN Transportation Ltd. (CNTL). This group includes our dedicated owner-operator truck drivers across Canada, proudly represented by Unifor National Council 4000.

Unifor members ratify contract with Eastlink

Unifor telecommunications members at Eastlink, represented by Local 919-M in Nova Scotia, have voted in favour of a new collective agreement that includes wage increases over the next three years.

The contract provides a 4.3% wage increase in the first year, followed by a 4% raise in the second year. The third year allows for a 2% raise and includes a ‘me too’ clause that stipulates that if the bargaining unit in Halifax receives more, these members will see the same increase. Additionally, employees will receive a $4,500 signing bonus.

Unifor members ratify Manitoba Lotteries contract

WINNIPEG—Wage increases, a signing bonus and shift premiums are highlights of a new collective agreement ratified by Unifor Local 144 members at the Manitoba Liquor and Lotteries Corporation.

“The previous conservative government left gaming sector workers behind,” said Lana Payne, Unifor National President. “The gains in this contract help address the economic circumstances workers face, including the rising cost of living.”

Unifor members at Manitoba Lotteries reach tentative agreement

WINNIPEG—Unifor Local 144 members will vote on a contract later this week after negotiations produced a tentative agreement today.

“Our members at Manitoba Liquor and Lotteries demonstrated to the employer they were fed up with the status quo,” said Lana Payne, Unifor National President. “Their solidarity and skilled bargaining has resulted in a contract they can be proud of.”

Recruitment and retention issues, pay parity and funding key issues as PWTransit workers go on strike

COMOX, B.C.– Unifor Local 114 members at Pacific Western Transportation (PWTransit) began strike action this morning in Comox and Campbell River, B.C. to make a stand to improve public transit. 

“We don’t take strike action lightly, but this is about fairness for our drivers, and this is about fixing the systemic problems in our transit system to provide better working conditions and quality service for the public,” said Unifor Western Regional Director Gavin McGarrigle. 

Unifor health care members at Marshall Gowland Manor ratify collective agreement

Unifor Local 302 members employed at Marshall Gowland Manor have in Sarnia, Ontario overwhelmingly voted 97 per cent in favour of ratifying their new collective.

"From the outset of our bargaining efforts, our top priority has always been the well-being of our members," said Rusty Sproul, Local 302 Treasurer. "This agreement not only secures the livelihoods of our 142 dedicated members, but also establishes a promising foundation for future negotiations."

Unifor files 72-hour strike notice with PWTransit

VANCOUVER – Unifor has submitted a 72-hour strike notice to Pacific Western Transportation (PWTransit) after Local 114 transit workers voted to reject a tentative agreement.

The strike deadline is 2 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 14, 2023.

Local 114’s contract with PWTransit expired March 31, 2023.

PWT is contracted by BC Transit to provide services in Campbell River and Comox Valley, B.C. and work as transit operators, handy dart operators, mechanics, and cleaners.

Canada’s Best Chance to Ban Scabs

By: Lana Payne

Labour disputes are complicated affairs.

I should know.

This past year, Unifor members have faced more strikes and lockouts than at any time in the union’s 10-year history.

Making the decision to go on strike is a difficult one for workers. It takes an emotional and financial toll on individuals and families. It’s a measure of last resort, and for good reason. That’s why strikes occur in less than two percent of union contract negotiations.  

This month, the federal government, with crucial backing from the NDP, tabled Bill C-58.