Steelworkers at University of Guelph Ratify New Contract

GUELPH, ON, Sept. 26, 2014 /CNW/ - University of Guelph administrative and technical employees, members of United Steelworkers (USW) Local 4120, have ratified a three-year collective agreement with the university.

The new contract, covering 900 administrative and technical staff, was ratified by union members in voting Wednesday and Thursday.

"This agreement improves wages, job security and working conditions and establishes a groundbreaking process aimed at ensuring long-term pension sustainability and retirement security for our members," said USW Local 4120 President Wendy Morley.

The pension agreement between USW Local 4120 and the University of Guelph follows a similar deal reached earlier this month between the University of Toronto and its technical and administrative staff, also represented by the USW.

"USW and University of Guelph officials will work over the next three years

to examine pension sustainability issues and recommend options for reform," said Steelworkers Area Coordinator Sean Logan.

Options will include the creation of a Jointly Sponsored Pension Plan (JSPP) - a defined benefit plan in which employers and members share responsibility for plan governance and funding, Logan said. Any reforms to the pension plan will have to be negotiated and approved by affected members.

"Our union and our members are committed to proactive and innovative approaches to ensure retirement security for workers who have negotiated and paid for their pensions over decades," said Marty Warren, the USW's Ontario Director.

SOURCE: United Steelworkers (USW)

Marty Warren, USW Ontario Director, 416-243-8792
Wendy Morley, President, USW Local 4120, 519-766-4120, [email protected]
Sean Logan, USW Area Coordinator, 905-629-4991 ext. 225, [email protected]
Bob Gallagher, USW Communications, 416-544-5966, 416-434-2221, [email protected]