Bombardier workers ratify collective agreements

TORONTO, June 28, 2015 /CNW/ - Members of two Unifor locals working at Bombardier Aerospace in Downsview ratified new collective agreements with the company this morning, enhancing their pensions and job security.

"This deal represents a significant gain for our members in a difficult time for the business jet market," said Scott McIlmoyle, President of Unifor Local 112.

The new contracts cover members of Unifor Local 112 who work in production at the plant, as well as members of Unifor Local 673 who work in technical office and clerical positions.

"The company looked for significant cost reductions from our members, but we kept bargaining past the deadline to reach this deal," said Mary Ellen McIlmoyle, President of Unifor Local 673.

Wage improvements were achieved for both locals in each of the second and third year of the agreements at 1 and 1.25 percent respectively.  The new contracts expire on June 22, 2018.

Under the new collective agreements, contract workers, known as complimentary workers at the plant, will be made permanent. Pension increases were also achieved in both agreements in addition to a retirement incentive program. "Early retirement initiatives will create employment opportunities for young people and will help offset recent layoff announcements at the facility," said Dawn Cartwright, Unifor Aerospace Director.

Unifor is Canada's largest union in the private sector, representing more than 305,000 workers including 11,000 in the aerospace industry. It was formed Labour Day weekend 2013 when the Canadian Auto Workers and the Communications, Energy and Paperworkers union merged.

SOURCE Unifor