CONCORD, ONTARIO—Unifor Local 112 members ratified a new
three-year collective agreement today ending a labour dispute at the UTIL
Canada Inc. auto parts plant.
“The unity, strength and solidarity of Unifor Local 112 members displayed
throughout this dispute was pivotal in reaching a fair settlement,” said
Naureen Rizvi, Unifor Ontario Regional Director. “I would like to congratulate
union members on a successful ratification and the union’s bargaining team for
their hard work and determination throughout the negotiations.”
Union members sought a fairer, more equitable and respectful workplace in
bargaining and throughout the dispute. The union reached a tentative
settlement with the employer on June 10, 2022 and Unifor members ratified the
collective agreement at a meeting held earlier today.
Under the new agreement, union members will receive significant wage
increases. Provisions for emergency paid time off were also introduced for the
first time and probationary wage rates were eliminated. The union also
negotiated better protections to ensure the integrity of bargaining unit work.
Ten new bargaining unit jobs will be posted immediately and new language for
respectful workplace training and union representation in management meetings
was also introduced. The agreement will also introduce a Racial Justice
Advocate position immediately.
“The overwhelming dedication of all union members at UTIL Canada was
incredible to see as was the outpouring of support we received from across the
GTA and throughout the province,” said John Turner, Unifor Local 112
President. “The support from our members and the community kept spirits high
on the picket line and at the bargaining table. This dispute was a reminder of
how strong our union is and the importance of union members taking action to
demand the respect they deserve.”
The newly ratified three-year agreement expires on June 1, 2025.
Unifor is Canada’s largest union in the private sector, representing 315,000
workers in every major area of the economy. The union advocates for all
working people and their rights, fights for equality and social justice in
Canada and abroad, and strives to create progressive change for a better
future.
https://www.unifor.org/news/all-news/auto-parts-workers-util-ratify-agreement-ending-labour-dispute