UFCW Canada Local 1000A members at Brandt Meat Packers fought back against major concessions and voted to ratify a new agreement with wage and language improvements.
The agreement runs from March 2015 to March 2019 and covers 67 workers at the Mississauga-based deli meat manufacturer.
Workers on payroll will receive $0.25/per hour raise and a $200 lump sum effective the first Monday following ratification.
They will also see increases of $0.30/per hour on March 14, 2016, March 13, 2017 and March 12, 2018. Those who are over scale will receive $2,400 in lump sum payments over the term of the collective agreement.
In addition, workers achieved strong union representation language which will ensure increased protection of workers’ rights.
These gains were achieved in a tough negotiating climate, where the employer sought several concessions, including cuts to vacation, wage freezes and the elimination of a Christmas bonus.
“With the support of our members, we successfully defeated many concessionary proposals to secure a fair agreement for workers at Brandt Meat Packers,” said Dustin Magee, Local 1000A Staff Rep and lead negotiator.
The bargaining committee was comprised of Magee, and members, Sheldon Pemberton, Terry O’Handley, Roman Telech and Nelia Vieira.
