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VANCOUVER, Jan. 15, 2016 /CNW/ - Today's unanimous ratification of a new collective agreement between Unifor and Harbour Link Container Services means that only one trucking company—Port Transport—remains behind picket lines.
"We know it is only a matter of time before Port Transport is forced to sign the same agreement that all of the other companies have now signed," said Joie Warnock, Unifor's Western Director. "Instead of making their customers suffer any longer, Port Transport's owners need to sign a deal as soon as possible."
The collective agreement with Harbour Link meets the framework of the pattern deal signed with other companies and increases "off dock" and CN and CP rates for local drivers. Harbour Link has also agreed to pay for drivers' cargo insurance among many other changes. Highway drivers will receive a 9% increase on trip and mileage rates, increasing by a further 2% in both 2017 and 2018. Per the Container Trucking Act, the employer will pay outstanding retroactive wages owed from April 3, 2014 by no later than January 22, 2016.
Unifor's BC Area Director Gavin McGarrigle says that stability in the sector is enhanced with 90% of Unifor members now covered under collective agreements that run to July 2019.
"The days of trucking companies violating the law and thumbing their noses at container truck drivers are coming to an end," said McGarrigle. "Our members at Harbour Link should be applauded for their determination to stay on strike over the holiday season to secure a fair deal."
Unifor is Canada's largest union in the private sector, representing more than 310,000 workers. It was formed Labour Day weekend 2013 when the Canadian Auto Workers and the Communications, Energy and Paperworkers unions merged.
SOURCE Unifor
