As the new USW District 6 Director, I am honoured to share our significant achievements over the past year. Our collective efforts have strengthened our organizing initiatives and led to notable bargaining successes that advance workers’ rights across Ontario and the Atlantic provinces.
A highlight of our bargaining victories was at IMT Defence in Ingersoll, Ont., where over 200 members engaged in a nine-week strike. This strike eliminated the two-tier wage system and secured general wage increases of nine per cent over the four years. This achievement sets a powerful precedent for future negotiations. Similarly, our members at Tenneco Automotive in Cambridge, Ont., reached a three-year agreement that brought total wage hikes of 10.5%, increased contributions to the Steelworkers’ Pension Plan, enhanced benefits, including vacation entitlement and health coverage.
This year, we also successfully unfroze the Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) language at Magellan Aerospace, a critical win after years of stagnation. This ensures our members’ wages keep pace with inflation, safeguarding their purchasing power. Our recent bargaining efforts have led to substantial pension improvements, enhancing financial security for our members as they approach retirement.
The Logixx security guards’ strike in Goderich, Ont., during which they achieved a 9.9% wage increase over the next two years. It also includes improved sick leave provisions and new leave options for traditional Indigenous practices, demonstrates our unwavering commitment to inclusivity and respect for all workers. Lastly, workers at the Starbucks Uptown Waterloo location secured a historic collective agreement. This success sets a powerful standard, with many other Starbucks locations nationwide preparing to follow suit.
Our committees have tirelessly promoted equity, diversity and workers’ rights, driving meaningful community changes. The annual spring school has equipped members with essential skills, reinforcing our resilience in an ever-changing labour landscape.
As we look ahead to 2025, we are committed to building on this foundation, expanding our organizing capacity and fortifying our advocacy for workers’ rights across Ontario and the Atlantic provinces. Together, we are shaping a fairer, stronger future for all.
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