Saint-Paul-de-Joliette, Que. – June 24, 2014 – Following a lengthy conciliation process, UFCW Canada Local 1991P members working at the Patrick Morin distribution centre in Saint-Paul-de-Joliette, Quebec have ratified the agreement-in-principle reached between the company and union in late May 2014. The new collective agreement, which is effective until 2017, is the first contract for the Patrick Morin workers after they voted to join the union last year.

With respect to compensation, the new agreement provides employees with 8 to 10 percent wage increases over the course of three years. In addition to this, material handlers and inventory assistants will receive a lump sum payment of $300, while leads will receive $400. In the case of part-time workers, the lump sum payment will be prorated according to number of hours worked. The agreement also includes an upgrade in sick leave and fair clauses concerning the allotment of overtime.  

"I would like to congratulate the members at the Patrick Morin distribution centre on achieving an impressive first contract," says UFCW Canada Local 1991P President Mario Maisonneuve. "Our union is committed to providing the Patrick Morin members with outstanding representation going forward, and I would like to thank the bargaining committee for helping to negotiate a fair and competitive first collective agreement," Brother Maisonneuve adds.