On October 29, 2020, Mama Earth Organics workers voted in favour of their first union contract.
The three-year contract is effective from October 29, 2020 to October 29, 2023 and covers approximately 120 members. Workers made many gains, including job security protections, paid sick days, fair wages and an expanded benefits plan.
Karen Munk, a negotiations committee member and Packer with the company for over four years, was elated to get a first contract.
“Looking forward to getting this contract was the hopeful light that kept us going during the pandemic,” said Munk. “It’s been so uplifting and overwhelming – this was the the boost we needed.”
Negotiations were led by Union Representative Dustin Magee, with support from Organizing Director Lesley Prince, Union Representative Ray Ramkhelawan, and members Joel Bazin, Ally Brinsmead, Karen Munk and Alex Tizzard.
“We’re very proud of Mama Earth workers’ resolve to fight for a fair union contract that recognizes their hard-work and commitment,” said President Wayne Hanley. “The strength and stability that a union contract provides workers is so important, especially during this pandemic.”
Achieving three paid sick days in the contract was an important win for members.
“Considering the pandemic, the sick days are significant for us,” said Munk. “A transparent wage structure represents the values of fairness that we wanted," she added. "We know what to expect, and everyone gets an increase."
Mama Earth Organics is located in East York and prepares and delivers fresh and organic food baskets.
Highlights
- $1.10 wage increase over the contract term
- Benefit plan expanded to cover family, with less cost to members
- Three paid sick days
- A transparent job posting process
- Job security through limits on temporary employees, and contracting out language
