Toronto – March 23, 2019 – UFCW Canada Local 175 members working at East Metro Youth Services in Toronto have achieved a first collective agreement that provides wage gains, lump sum payments, and more. The 100 health care members at East Metro Youth Services provide mental health support and health care services to their clients.

The union negotiating committee worked hard to achieve a good first contract for members and the parties eventually entered conciliation to deal with monetary and language issues that the members wanted addressed.

The agreement includes wage increases of 3.3 percent per year for all classifications working through their respective job bands. Employees at the end of their band will receive a one-time lump sum equivalent to 2 percent of last year’s wages. Contract workers will get a $500 lump sum payment as of ratification. Relief staff will see an increase of 50 cents per hour plus a $200 lump sum effective as of ratification.

The first contract also includes new premiums established to ensure employees receive higher rates of pay for performing higher-rated jobs. Reimbursement for personal vehicle use improves to 49 cents per kilometre, up from 45 cents before. In addition, the meal allowance increases to a maximum of $40 per day.

Language written into this first contract ensures that members do not lose pay when required to serve jury duty. Contract language also includes provisions for paid bereavement leave, up to four float days, merit days based on years of service, family health days, and sick days.
Contract employees will receive all benefits after completing 576 hours of work. In addition, contract workers will receive enhanced vacation entitlement, and their seniority will now count toward job postings as well. To read more about the new union contract at East Metro Youth Services, click here.

UFCW Canada Locals 175 & 633 represent more than 70,000 hard-working Ontarians in almost every sector of the economy. To learn more about UFCW 175 & 633, visit their website.

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