Steelworkers Negotiate New Contract with Novelis

KINGSTON, ON, June 10, 2015 /CNW/ - United Steelworkers (USW) members employed at the Novelis aluminum manufacturing plant in Kingston have ratified a three-year collective agreement with the company.

Members of USW Local 343 voted 77% in favour of the new contract, which provides annual pay increases of three per cent.

"Our members believe this is a fair deal that recognizes their skills and the value of the work they do every day to contribute to the company's success," said USW Local 343 President Tracy Simpson.

The Novelis plant produces high-end rolled aluminum for the automotive industry as well as specialty and industrial products for marine, transportation and other industrial applications. Approximately 140 USW members work at the facility.

In addition to three-per-cent annual pay hikes, the new collective agreement provides an extra 50 cents an hour for mill operators in the contract's first year, as well as language and benefits improvements, including new orthodontics coverage of $1,000.

"Through free and fair collective bargaining with their employer, these workers have negotiated an agreement that maintains decent jobs that will continue to benefit their families, their community and the local economy," said USW Ontario Director Marty Warren.

SOURCE United Steelworkers (USW)

Tracy Simpson, USW Local 343 President, 613-888-4355 (c), 613-546-4364 (w), [email protected]; Marty Warren, USW District 6 Director, 416-243-8792; Bob Gallagher, USW Communications, 416-544-5966, 416-434-2221, [email protected]