Unifor members ratify agreement at THK Automotive, ending strike

TILLSONBURG, ON, April 26, 2022 /CNW/ - Approximately 160 Unifor Local 1859 members at auto parts manufacturer THK Rhythm Automotive ratified a collective agreement today, ending a three-day strike at the plant. 

Unifor Local 1859 members at the THK plant in Tillsonburg, Ontario on the picket line April 25, 2022. (CNW Group/Unifor)

"Thanks to the strength and solidarity of our union members, the community and support from across the province, Unifor Local 1859 members fought for and won a fair contract," said Naureen Rizvi, Unifor Ontario Regional Director. "I would like to congratulate our members on a successful ratification and thank the union's bargaining team for their hard work and determination throughout the negotiations."

Negotiations between the union and the company continued throughout the labour dispute. Unifor Local 1859 members ratified the new agreement in a vote held today after a reaching a settlement with the company. The agreement delivered wage increases, increase to the health care spending account as well as the creation of a Racial Justice Advocate position. Union members will receive a wage increase of 4.5% upon ratification and an additional 2% in years two and three of the agreement.

"This dispute shows the importance of workers taking action and demanding the respect they deserve," said Lorraine Sinclair, Unifor Local 1859 President. "We are grateful for the support and solidarity we received from everyone in the community and across the province throughout this dispute."

The three-day dispute was the first in the Tillsonburg facility's 40-year history.

Unifor is Canada's largest union in the private sector, representing 315,000 workers in every major area of the economy. The union advocates for all working people and their rights, fights for equality and social justice in Canada and abroad, and strives to create progressive change for a better future.

SOURCE Unifor

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