29 July, 2011
Vancouver, B.C. – IAM members from across British Columbia voted 74% in favour of ratifying the contract between the Machinists and Finning. The IAM members from 25 locations across the province walked the picket line for five weeks before reaching an agreement.
Wages, benefits, shifts and sub-contracting were the four major issues of concern for the workers who voted overwhelmingly in favour of strike action.
“This is a good contract settlement, made possible by the endurance and willingness of IAM members to stand up to their employer,” said Directing Business Representative Stan Pickthall.
“This has been a long haul with Finning, and our membership have shown strong support for their bargaining committee throughout these negotiations,” Pickthall said.
“We encourage all members to return to work at Finning when they are contacted by the Company,” said Al Cyr, Business Representative for IAM District 250.
Some highlights of the agreement are:
- Journeyperson wages will increase by $5.28 per hour over the life of the Agreement, with the first 4% wage increase retroactive to April 15, 2011.
- Four-year agreement – wages increased: 4% 3% 3% 4%
- Benefit highlights: DC Pension increased; prescription drug card; increased Life and A.D. & D.
- Increases to premiums on modified shifts and Tuesday to Saturday shift
- Increases to Regional Wage Adjustments; new locations added
- Added language improves process for notice to Union on proposed Subcontracting Company proposal
- New Language ensures employees are not required to work Statutory Holidays; language requires eight (8) weeks notice and posting for volunteers in Sparwood
“Besides the improvements made in these negotiations, our members have clearly shown Finning that they will stand firm when necessary. Certified in 1966, the Union has never before engaged in strike action in British Columbia. There is a clear message to Finning that the Machinists are rock solid in this province, and that the Company must respect their employees both at the bargaining table and in the workplace,” said Pickthall.
The 700 mechanics, parts department and support personnel repair and overhaul heavy equipment for mining, forestry and construction industries in British Columbia.
District 250 has instructed its members to bring down all picket lines immediately.
