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Union Ratified Agreement
Steelworkers ratify agreement with DB Ontario/ABF Quebec
HAWKESBURY, ON - United Steelworkers (USW) Ontario/Atlantic Director Wayne Fraser has announced that a first collective agreement has been ratified by employees of DB Ontario/ABF Quebec, a warehouse distributor for the Jean Coutu chain of pharmacies.
The 100 workers became USW members late last year and work as packers,
shippers, receivers, order pickers and forklift operators.
The three-year contract, which runs till Dec. 31, 2010, includes wage
increases that will mean a packer's top wage goes from $11.40 an hour to $14
by the third year, an increase of 23 per cent.
As well, the contract improves prescription drug benefits, adds two new
holidays and includes a good seniority clause to ensure fairness in
promotions. The workers now have provisions that prohibit harassment, create a
grievance procedure and offer protection against unjust discipline. There are
also negotiated contributions to the Steelworkers Humanity Fund, the USW's own
relief and development non-governmental organization.
The agreement was reached with the assistance of a provincial mediator.
"This is a good first agreement that provides solid improvements for our
members," said USW Representative David Lipton.
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