The agreement was reached with the assistance of a provincial mediator, and includes wage and pension increases as well as contract language improvements.

In addition to a cost-of-living-adjustment (COLA), an overall 90-cent wage increase was negotiated. The defined benefit pension plan will also increase by $3 over the life of the agreement. Other improvements include a 30-minute paid meal period, an additional floating holiday, accommodation for injured workers, and an apprenticeship program for skilled trades.

"This agreement was made possible because we were able to rally the support of our members," said Steelworkers’ Staff Representative David Lipton. "After initially demanding concessions, the company threw out that approach and opted to work with us on improving labour relations and productivity. We were able to bargain an agreement that provides for improvements and allows the company to continue to offer good jobs."

Employees at Trimag make magnesium die casting for the auto parts industry.

The United Steelworkers represents about 280,000 men and women working in every sector of Canada’s economy.