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A total of 220 Unifor members representing Local 6000 and 6001 in Quebec and Local 6007 in Ontario have voted in favour of a new collective agreement. This marks the conclusion of months of rigorous negotiations with Bell.
Negotiations commenced in the autumn of 2022 and reached an impasse, necessitating the support of a federal conciliation officer. The result of this mediation was a tentative agreement, which members voted to ratify on October 11, 2023.
The new 4-year contract features a series of wage increases, with a retroactive 3.25% increase effective January 1, 2023, followed by 2.5% increments for the subsequent three years of the agreement.
"Congratulations to these workers for securing a new contract with Bell. This agreement is a testament to the collective efforts and dedication of the bargaining committee who fought hard for their members,” said Lana Payne, Unifor National President.
Key highlights of the agreement encompass significant improvements in seniority protections, specifically to the allocation of work schedules, overtime, days off, vacations, enhanced overtime compensation, and reinforced safeguards against technological changes.
The agreement includes other gains, such as the addition of National Day for Truth and Reconciliation holiday, an enhanced memorandum of understanding related to mental health, an improved telework program, the reclassification of 46 part-time employees to full-time status, and the integration of a racial justice advocate role, among other provisions.
"The ratification of this contract at Bell Sales is the fruit of our collective perseverance, a step forward that reinforces our determination to create fair and respectful working conditions," said Quebec Director Daniel Cloutier.
The bargaining committee extends its heartfelt appreciation to all members for their unwavering commitment and perseverance throughout the negotiation process.
