Ariva workers win wage increases

TORONTO, May 15, 2015 /CNW/ - Members of Unifor Local 1291 have voted in favour of a new collective agreement. The members work for Ariva, a division of Domtar.

The agreement includes annual wage increases, in addition to other gains. It achieves all key elements of Unifor's Eastern Canada Pulp and Paper Pattern.

"Despite pressure to make concessions, the members remained determined, resulting in key language improvements and monetary gains, said Mike Kachurowski, Unifor National Representative.

"This agreement is another example of the benefit of pattern bargaining," said Jerry Dias, Unifor National President. "The more workers join together, the more power we have."

The agreement provides for 2% annual wage increases, a $1000 signing bonus, increased shift premiums and life insurance. It also establishes a new 3 cent/hour employer paid education leave program. The new agreement is retro-active to April 16, 2014 and expires on April 16, 2018.

Unifor is Canada's largest union in the private sector, representing more than 305,000 workers. It was formed Labour Day weekend 2013 when the Canadian Auto Workers and the Communications, Energy and Paperworkers unions merged.

SOURCE Unifor

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