United Steelworkers Ratify Two Contracts in Cambridge

CAMBRIDGE, ON, July 27, 2015 /CNW/ - Job security and an apprenticeship program for skilled jobs are highlights of new contracts for almost 550 workers in the Cambridge area, members of United Steelworkers (USW) Local 4610.

"It's very forward-looking of our members at Frito Lay. They initiated early bargaining recognizing the potential for significant capital investment by the company in its Cambridge operations in the near future," said Marty Warren, USW Ontario Director.

The five-year agreements with Frito Lay (now owned by PepsiCo Canada) cover 500 workers in the plant who make chips and snacks and 43 transport workers. The contracts will run from Jan. 3, 2016 to Jan. 2, 2021.

"These are good family-supporting, community-supporting jobs in the industrial heartland of Ontario," said Warren. "I'm proud of our members and the gains they have made with these deals with Frito Lay. It demonstrates their loyalty and commitment as well as their interest in gaining skills and access to opportunity."

In the new deals, the plant workers gain pension and benefit improvements, wage increases of 10.75% over five years, an apprenticeship program that will give members the opportunity for learning a trade, enhanced job security and vacation flexibility.

The transport workers gain a pension increase exceeding 10% over five years, wage and benefit improvements, a new pay structure with the option of review after one year, more opportunities for growth and job security for drivers and welcome changes to the vacation process.

Both contracts include an expedited grievance process for resolving disputes and improved union representation.

"These agreements secure the future of 550 of our members in Cambridge. Agreements like these demonstrate collective bargaining is a key to Ontario's economic success," said Warren.

SOURCE United Steelworkers (USW)

Marty Warren, USW Ontario Director, 416-243-8792; Carrie Robinson, USW Staff Representative, 519-650-3405 x 222, [email protected]; Bob Gallagher, USW Communications, 416-544-5966, 416-434-2221, [email protected]