Westray Law 20th anniversary: ‘A historic failure’
Families, unions call for greater commitment from governments to stop workplace deaths
Members of USW Local 6946-19 at Pastway Planing and Wood Preserving have a new collective agreement that delivers wage increases of 7.5% over three years plus $1,500 in bonuses in the first two years.
The agreement was ratified early in 2022 by a strong majority of the 53 workers who create quality pressure treated lumber known for its strength and durability.
The workers in Combermere, in eastern Ontario, have a good relationship with their longstanding employer.
The USW members kept the business going throughout the pandemic and now they are being rewarded for their dedication with solid across-the-board gains in their new contract.
In bargaining, the workers won 2.5% increases in each of three years, plus a $750 signing bonus and another $750 cash bonus at the start of the second year of the three-year deal negotiated in recognition of record inflation levels.
Other gains include more money for protective clothing, more dollars into the group RRSP and enhanced vision care.
“This is a good deal and the members worked hard to get it,” said David Lipton, USW Staff Representative.
“After two years of struggle, our union is bargaining in better times. For members of USW Local 6946-19 at Pastway Planing, that means job security, good wage increases, better benefits and improved contributions for their future retirement,” said Myles Sullivan, USW District 6 Director.
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