Share
Unifor Local 5555 has ratified its latest collective agreement with McMaster University in Hamilton, Ont., winning significant gains in wage increases and racial justice bargaining language.
“Congratulations to the bargaining committee on ratifying its latest agreement,” said Deb Tveit, Assistant to Unifor’s National President. “The members ratified the best monetary package they’ve had in over 10 years. The last time they saw a 3% increase was in 2006.”
The Local 5555 Unit 1 Administrative Unit voted 91% in favour of the proposed agreement on April 26, 2022. The unit is a large and complex unit of 2,865 members representing administrative staff, sport coaches, reactor operators, research lab technicians and medical secretaries among others.
The new three-year deal begins May 1, 2022 and expires April 30, 2025.
The gains include wage increases – a total of 9% over three years – with the first year at 3.25%, the second year at 3% and the last year at 2.75%.
“This contract is a huge gain for our members,” said Beth Couchman, President of Unifor Local 5555. “On the heels of Bill 124, this is a huge step forward. With the cost of living being what it is, the members need every cent in their pockets.”
The committee also secured increased benefits for its members, including more money for eyeglasses and safety glasses as well as $400 in year two and $500 in year three in health care spending dollars that can be used to supplement existing coverages, as well as for items not presently covered, such as IVF and gender affirmation surgeries. This contract also secured a living wage for our short-term employees and two personal days to begin January 2023.
On top of that, the committee bargained ongoing racial justice advocate language in this collective agreement, which will provide members with the representation and advocacy they seek.
