RISE UP FOR COURIERS

by Richard Eichel, Director, Package Division

In our last report I commented on an old Chinese curse of “may you live in interesting times.” Like it or not, we do indeed live in interesting times, but it is nice to see us return to some sense of normalcy compared to the last couple of years. COVID-19 with its many variants and other illnesses persists, forcing us all to continue to be cautious as we return to a new normal.

Purolator

Purolator negotiations dominated our division for the last year. The negotiating committee was intent on negotiating face to face to make sure our demands were taken seriously.

Correlation of the country’s proposals were done in July 2021 with negotiations kicking off in September, with the union applying for conciliation in November.

Further meetings were scheduled for January but had to be cancelled due to pandemic restrictions. When meetings were once again allowed, we next met in March and thereafter went to the membership for the strike vote.

A final offer was presented by the company in May with a unanimous recommendation from the union to reject as the negotiating committee felt there were still areas that needed improvement. The offer was rejected.

Further meetings were scheduled for July, where after serving a 72-hour strike notice, an acceptable offer was concluded.

This offer was unanimously recommended by all 12 local unions coast to coast to coast. Ballots were sent out and the offer was ratified by 60.3% of the voting members.

The five-year agreement included a 16% percent wage increase along with improved pension and health care benefits. Most importantly, the offer included expanded language for subcontracting, which preserves and protects jobs into the future and many language improvements specific to certain regions of the country.

The negotiating committee was comprised of 57 officers and shop stewards from all twelve Purolator local unions. We are extremely proud of how this negotiation committee, through its determination and solidarity, was able to gain so much in this round of bargaining. Our thanks go to those strong, united and responsible committee members.

Retro pay has now been paid out and new contracts are being prepared for signing and distribution.