/R E P E A T -- Maritime Employers Association and Longshoremen's Union
establish new collective agreement/

MONTREAL, Sept. 10 /CNW Telbec/ - The Maritime Employers Association and the CUPE Longshoremen's Union (Local 375) have concluded an agreement that will improve stability and competitiveness at the Port of Montreal. The four-year agreement extends from January 2009 to December 2012, offering the longshoremen wage increases of 1.5% to 2.5%.

The agreement also makes changes to the collective agreement that will allow the Port of Montreal to stay competitive. Increased workforce flexibility and a voluntary retirement option will give rate stability for Port of Montreal users. The agreement also provides for an additional contribution from employers to help the union cover its unfunded actuarial liability.

The agreement will be submitted to the members of the CUPE Longshoremen's Union (Local 375) shortly.

About the Maritime Employers Association
The Maritime Employers Association represents ship owners, operators and agents, stevedoring contractors and terminal operators. On behalf of its members, the MEA is mandated to negotiate and administer collective agreements covering over 1450 longshoremen in Hamilton, Toronto, Montreal and Trois-Rivières/Bécancour.

For further information:

Steve Flanagan
Cell: 514-916-2512
[email protected]