Deal ratified by Walfoods workers

On November 27, 2018, Local 175 members employed by Walfoods at St. John’s College in Brantford ratified a new three-year collective agreement.

Members receive a signing bonus of $100, plus annual wage increases totalling $1 per hour over the duration of the contract. The shift premium paid for Salaried Employee work increases to $1 per hour, up from 75 cents.

Eye care coverage improves to $200, up from $150, per 24 months. Plus, dependents receive improved coverage of $200, up from $100. In addition, employees and dependents both receive $50 toward the cost of eye exams. The employer agrees to increase its contributions to the workers’ dental plan by up to 1 cent per hour worked per year should it become necessary to maintain the plan. A new shoe allowance provides members with $50 per year toward the purchase of non-slip shoes as well.

Language improvements provide five days, up from three, for bereavement leave for the death of an immediate family member. Lastly, the employer will provide the Union Steward a maximum of eight hours of paid time per year to attend Union training.

The monetary increases achieved in this new agreement mark a significant financial improvement over previous contracts for these workers.

Union Negotiating Committee: Karen Brennan and Union Rep Mike Mattioli.