Jonsson’s YIG employees ratify
August 14, 2018
Employees at Jonsson’s YIG in Kemptville have achieved a new agreement.
Part-time employees at Jonsson’s YIG wanted adjustments to the wage grid that provided a gap to keep the lowest end rate ahead of minimum wage. The committee achieved language that ensures end rates stay above minimum wage by at least 60 cents per hour. Part-time employees at the end rate also receive a lump sum of $250 effective August 28, 2018. Full-time employees at the end rate receive a lump sum payment of $500 on August 28, 2018 as well. Plus, full-time end rates increase by 25 per hour in each of the remaining years of the contract term.
The employer will contribute lump sums over the term of the contract totalling $3,600 per employee toward the employees’ group RRSP. Employees benefit from an improved safety boot allowance as well. The allowance increases to $100 for both full and part-time, up from $90.
New language now gives Union Stewards 15 minutes of paid time to provide Union orientation to new hires. Other improvements ensure the employer will schedule regular employees to work no more than three consecutive Saturdays in a row before getting a Saturday off. Bereavement leave entitlement increases to provide more paid leave. Other language improvements address pay equity and arbitration.
Lastly, the employer will contribute $300 toward the UFCW Local 175 Training & Education Fund.
The agreement, ratified on August 7, 2018, covers 104 workers at the grocery store.
Union Negotiating Committee: Deborah Gilmer, Union Rep Joe Tenn, and Region 7 Director, Sharon Kempf.