For immediate release
10 August, 2021
Comox Valley, BC – The newest members of IAM Local 456 ratified their first agreement on August 9, 2021. The 17 workers at the local auto dealership had voted overwhelmingly to join and the IAM was certified to represent them on 02 March, 2021.
They rejected their first Memorandum of Agreement on July 13 by 100% as it contained no provision for a pension plan. So, after taking a strike vote and with a possible strike looming, the employer had a change of heart and agreed to allow the group to participate in the IAM Local 692 pension.
Members can now put 1% of their wage increase into the pension plan each year of the agreement. Since Local 692 opened up its pension plan to those outside their own local, a number of IAM locals have joined and strengthened its power.
The members of Local 456 also other wins including strong language concerning severance, two days of bereavement leave, two sick days, ten general holidays paid as well as a Health and Welfare plan where employer pays 75% and members pay 25%. Finally, they also negotiated a wage increase 1%, 2% and 2% on a three-year deal.
“The group was very organized when they called in early February wanting to join the IAMAW. It’s great to have members who know what they want and are willing to fight for it. I’d like to welcome 17 new Fighting Machinists to the IAM.” Said John Humphrey, Business Representative for IAM District 250.
The IAM represents workers at auto dealerships across the country. They are among more than 1,500 members at auto and truck dealerships on Vancouver Island, the lower mainland of British Columbia, Edmonton, Calgary, Fort Frances, Sault Ste. Marie, Markham, Toronto, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador.
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For more information:
John Humphrey, Business Representative, IAM District 250
jhumphrey@250.org
