This union has been in negotiations since the end of October. The company is coming back with major changes that will have a negative impact on this union, and its members. We are not able at this time to gain anything, or even maintain the status quo at the site. The company wants, and is not willing to drop its incentive based pay, at this time. This direction will allow them to move people from the job that you are in, and wage rate, to another job at a lower rate. The company states this move will not be part of the arbitration process.        

With the company’s proposed new lay-off language, it is needed to be stressed that senior employees that are moved to this lower rate, because of performance, may be in line for being laid off if conditions exist for lay-off.

The company has proposed major changes to our very good severance; rehire rights, and layoff language.

Another key issue is the company wanting to introduce a new classification called MST’s. Manufacturing Service Temporary employees, which is similar to Support Labour.These employees will be doing work of the lower skilled duties that are being done presently by you.

The company proposed changes to the current LTD, which will be a significant factor for you, as it is based on your years of service.

From our side, we have proposed that the 24 hour wait time be removed on the current Short Term Disability plan, which has affected many of you.

We had asked for a wage increase across the board, but have been told the majority are above market rate.

With the above being stated during these negotiations, we are, as an executive, in the need for feedback from the membership. We are open to your questions. We are at the point in time that we may need to approach the Ministry of Labour to help with our negotiations.

We thank you for your support, and please continue to watch here and on the notice boards for further information. Any executive member can be contacted via this website, under the contacts section, or find us at the plant.

Thank –You

The Bargaining Committee