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Unifor Local 302 members employed at Marshall Gowland Manor have in Sarnia, Ontario overwhelmingly voted 97 per cent in favour of ratifying their new collective.
"From the outset of our bargaining efforts, our top priority has always been the well-being of our members," said Rusty Sproul, Local 302 Treasurer. "This agreement not only secures the livelihoods of our 142 dedicated members, but also establishes a promising foundation for future negotiations."
The newly ratified three-year collective agreement includes wage increases, enhanced benefits packages, and more robust job security language. Unifor Local 302 members working at Marshall Gowland Manor work in a wide range of jobs that include, Personal Support Worker (PSW), Registered Practical Nurse (RPN), Housekeeping, Maintenance, Dietary Aide, Cook, Laundry and Quality Improvement Coordinator.
"The bargaining process was certainly not without its challenges,” said Michelle Stewardson, Unit Chair of Local 302. “However, through unwavering solidarity our bargaining committee successfully navigated these challenges and reached an agreement that genuinely reflects the hard work and dedication of our members.
Negotiating this agreement presented a considerable challenge for the union. Initially, both parties had prepared for binding arbitration. However, the union organized community actions to apply pressure on the employer, urging them to return to the bargaining table. These action led the employer to avoid binding arbitration and return to the bargaining table where a tentative agreement was reached.
This newly ratified collective agreement highlights the power of unity in the collective bargaining process to achieve a fair and equitable collective agreement.
