Media Release
Marine Atlantic workers file for conciliation after employer stalls bargaining
April 3, 2024
SYDNEY, N.S.—Unifor has filed for conciliation on behalf of Marine Atlantic workers represented by Locals 4285 and 4286 after the employer has demonstrated an unwillingness to bargain by delaying meaningful negotiations.
“There is absolutely no acceptable reason for an employer to drag their feet and delay meaningful bargaining efforts, particularly as the cost of living has increased so drastically in that time,” said Unifor National President Lana Payne. “Marine Atlantic needs to come to the conciliation ready to get serious and ready to get a deal that respects its workers and our members.”
Collective agreements with Marine Atlantic Inc., the federal Crown Corporation responsible for operating the ferry service between Nova Scotia and the Island of Newfoundland, expired on December 31, 2022.
The previous negotiations with Marine Atlantic suffered such drastic company delays that by the time an agreement was ratified, it was already past its expiry. The union filed notice to bargain immediately after that round concluded.
“I don’t see how it’s possible for a Crown Corporation to neglect its workforce for so long,” said Atlantic Regional Director Jennifer Murray. “It is insulting that Marine Atlantic workers who waited 3 years for their last contract, should have to wait so long once again to negotiate wage increases. Conciliation is clearly necessary to drag this employer into some accountability.”
Unifor represents 631 members in Local 4285 who work as storekeepers, cooks, bosuns, quartermasters, deckhands, bridgewatch, carpenters, liferaft maintainers, certified and uncertified engine room assistants, and stewards.
Local 4286 has 100 members who work as senior chief stewards, pursers, chief stewards, and senior chief cooks.
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.
Bargaining Update
April 2, 2024
Today, the bargaining committee for Unifor Locals 4285 and 4286 representing the dedicated employees of Marine Atlantic Inc. filed for conciliation.
With the collective agreements “B” and “C” having expired on December 31, 2022, Unifor is committed to ensuring the rights and wellbeing of its members are protected and upheld during the ongoing contract negotiations.
The Unifor members of Marine Atlantic Inc. are the backbone of the company, tirelessly working to maintain the transportation link between the provinces of Newfoundland and Labrador and Nova Scotia. Your dedication and expertise are the key to the smooth operation of this infrastructure, and it is imperative that your contributions are duly recognized and valued.
Unifor filed notice to bargain in June 2023, with the expectation that the employer would come to the table ready to engage in constructive dialogue and negotiate in good faith.
However, the delay in setting dates and the subsequent lack of progress during three days of negotiations on March 26-28, 2024, are clear indications of the employer’s deliberate delay tactics. These delays have resulted in undue hardship and uncertainty for you as you continue to work at the same wage rates negotiated for 2022.
This union firmly believes that fair treatment and respect for workers' rights are non-negotiable principles that must be upheld at all times. We demand that the employer engage in genuine and timely bargaining discussions that prioritize the needs and concerns of members.
In light of these challenges, we have chosen to pursue conciliation as a means of facilitating constructive dialogue and achieving a resolution that meets your needs.
Unifor remains fully committed to representing your best interests and advocating for your rights in the workplace as we navigate the conciliation process. We are confident that with the assistance of the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Services we can secure a fair and equitable contract that reflects your dedication and hard work.
Bargaining Update
March 28, 2024
The bargaining committee representing Marine Atlantic workers at Unifor Local 4285 and 4286 met with the employer from March 26-28 to begin negotiations.
Marine Atlantic members service ferry routes that traverse from North Sydney, N.S. to Port Aux Basques, N.L. and Argentia, N.L.
“Unifor members at Marine Atlantic work in one of the most challenging and unpredictable environments as they help passengers make their way safely and comfortably through Atlantic Ocean waters between Nova Scotia and Newfoundland and Labrador,” said Atlantic Regional Director Jennifer Murray. “We expect this round of bargaining to reflect the incredible work Unifor members do to keep this vital link between Nova Scotia and Newfoundland and Labrabor running.”
Unifor represents 631 members in Local 4285 who work as storekeepers, cooks, bosuns, quartermasters, deckhands, bridgewatch, carpenters, liferaft maintainers, certified and uncertified engine room assistants, and stewards.
Local 4286 has 100 members who work as senior chief stewards, pursers, chief stewards and senior chief cooks.
Their previous collective agreement expired December 31, 2022.
