Members at Caressant Care Retirement in Fergus Ratify
February 11, 2026
Caressant Care Retirement in Fergus secure wage and other improvements in new agreement
On February 4, 2026, the healthcare workers at Caressant Care Retirement in Fergus ratified a new three-year collective agreement that includes a number of improvements.
Over the course of the agreement, members will receive general wage increases of 3.5% in the first year, 3% in the second year, and 3% in the third year. The evening/night shift and weekend shift premiums improve as well, and a new premium of $1 per hour will be paid to a Guest Attendant, as outlined in the agreement, who performs Med-pass. This is a big gain for members in this classification, as previously this premium was only paid for time spent administering the medication.
The Union Negotiating Committee achieved improved contributions to the dental fund, an increase to bereavement leave entitlement, and an enhanced uniform allowance as well. Members will benefit from a reduction in the number of years’ service required to achieve a seventh week of paid vacation. Registered Practical Nurses (RPNs) will also see the introduction of reimbursement for their certificates.
Additional improvements include better scheduling and call-in language and the addition of paid meals for extended shifts. Further language ensures that if a member requests, their float day can be used to observe the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
The members at Caressant Care Retirement Home in Fergus belong to the UFCW Local 175 Health, Office, and Professional Employees (HOPE) sector at the Local Union.
Union Negotiating Committee: Deepti Sahu, Marlissa Schwarz, and Union Representative Todd Janes.
Catch up on all the negotiation highlights from across the province here.
Read more Negotiation Updates from the Local 175 HOPE Sector! What’s HOPE? It stands for Health, Office & Professional Employees.
Find more features of UFCW Locals 175 & 633 members at work.
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