Metro Merivale workers achieve new deal – UFCW 175

Ottawa – May 19, 2015 – UFCW Canada Local 175 members working at the Metro Merivale store in Ottawa, Ontario recently ratified a new collective agreement that provides wage increases and improved contract language for members.

The new contract will include wage increases of $1.65 per hour for full-time employees and $1.50 per hour for part-time employees over the term of the agreement.

Negotiated improvements to health and welfare benefits include the introduction of a drug card, increased short term disability coverage, increased health care coverage, the addition of a spouse and child to life insurance coverage, and new orthotics coverage. Additionally, after ten years of service, employees will receive four weeks of vacation.

Significant new language has been added to the contract regarding progressive discipline and the employers' duty to accommodate no discrimination, harassment, or bullying in the workplace.

The union negotiating committee included Metro workers Ian Lavalee, Jamie Pritchard and Wanda Nicolas, as well as UFCW 175 Servicing Representatives Jacques Niquet, Sandra Proulx, and Simon Baker.