Muskoka, Ont. – September 15, 2015 – UFCW Canada Local 175 members with Muskoka Paramedics Association have recently ratified a new three-year collective agreement with their employer.

Under the new contract, wages will increase by 4.1% over the term of the agreement. Workers with five years or more of service will receive a 100% pay out from the severance plan. As of February 7, 2016, workers will be enrolled in the Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan (HOOPP).

Members may now use 72 hours of their annual paid sick time for family leave, up from the previous 48 hours allowed. The cap on weekly indemnity increases to $1,200 and long-term disability improves to $5,200. Improvements have also been made to deductibles including waiving the $300 deductible for chiropractic care. Meal allowance for workers improves to $13 and workers may now submit multiple receipts per day instead of the previous maximum of one.

New language ensures new employees will have time to meet with their steward and become acquainted with the collective agreement. Other language improvements address job postings and steward representation. The employer will also pay 100% of the costs for the negotiating committee and printing of collective agreements.

The union negotiating committee was comprised of UFCW Canada Local 175 members Mike Cartwright, Brad Davies, Roy Lovold, Paola Oke and UFCW Local 175 Region 8 Director Chris Fuller.