Compass Group Canada workers in central Saskatchewan vote “Yes!” to UFCW Canada Local 1400

Saskatoon, Sask. – February 8, 2013 – Compass Group Canada workers at the TCU Place in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan are now members of UFCW Canada Local 1400 following a winning unionization campaign last month.

The banquet service workers voted to join Local 1400 after the employer failed to provide wage increases, paid workers less than comparable banquet service companies, and harassed employees on multiple occasions. Management also practiced favouritism by hiring friends and family members while reducing hours for other workers.  

The Compass Group employees voted overwhelmingly in favour of unionizing in January and first contract negotiations are scheduled to begin in April. Local 1400 President Norm Neault says the company's constant mistreatment of staff was a major factor behind the workers' decision to unionize.

"We learned of one incident when there was a power outage that lasted a few hours and the supervisor insisted that the employees carry the tables and food for a large banquet up four floors, berating them the entire time," says Brother Neault. "Now that the workers are unionized they'll have protection against this type of harassment, as well as the ability to eliminate unsafe working conditions."

In voting for Local 1400 as their official bargaining agent, the 60 Compass Group members join food and banquet service workers at the Regina International Airport and the Regional Psychiatric Centre in Saskatoon.

"We are excited to get to work for these members by negotiating a fair and competitive contract and ensuring that Compass Group employees are respected on the job," Brother Neault adds.

To find out more about UFCW Canada Local 1400, visit their website at www.ufcw1400.ca.