TCRC-MWED ratify new agreement with ONR
Source: CNW
Published: October 27th 2008
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Ontario Northland and the Teamsters Canada Rail Conference - Maintenance of Way Employees Division Union (TCRC-MWED) announced today the ratification of a new collective agreement by TCRC-MWED's 182 members, with 89% of voting members in favour of accepting the new contract.

"We are pleased with the result of the vote, but most of all we are pleased that our members will see comprehensive changes in their working conditions, wages and benefits which bring us in line with the industry standard" said Larry Schiavo, Bargaining Committee Member.

"I want to thank bargaining committee members Tony Onolack and Larry Schiavo for their tireless efforts in obtaining an agreement that provides for significant improvements for TCRC-MWED members" said Louis Wilson, Secretary Treasurer of the TCRC-MWED. "This collective agreement, achieved without mediation, shows that we can jointly reach resolve with the company to the benefit of all parties."

A three-year agreement provides for wage increases each year for three years, retroactive to January 1, 2008, as well as substantial improvements to benefits and work rules.

"We are very pleased to have reached a new agreement, which benefits our employees while at the same time, allowing us to remain competitive as we work to meet the transportation needs of Northeastern Ontario," said Steve Carmichael, President and CEO of Ontario Northland.

The collective agreement covers 182 TCRC-MWED unionized employees working in the area of track, bridge and building maintenance, at various locations in Northeastern Ontario.

A tentative agreement was reached on September 22, 2008 and ratification votes took place on October 22, 2008.

Ontario Northland, an operational enterprise of the Province of Ontario, was established in 1902 and is a recognized leader in creating prosperity in the North by providing innovative transportation and telecommunication solutions. Operating primarily in northeastern Ontario, Ontario Northland's enterprises include: the Northlander, Polar Bear Express and Dream Catcher Express passenger trains; rail freight services; motor coach scheduled and charter services; refurbishment services; and Ontera telecommunication services.

The Teamsters Canada Rail Conference Maintenance of Way Employees Division is a strong and vibrant arm of Teamsters Canada, and represents the men and women who build, inspect and maintain the infrastructure on the ONR, CPR and almost two dozen other railways in Canada.
 

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