Workday Minnesota April 15, 2009 2009
St. Hyacinthe, Quebec - Some 180 workers at the Wal-Mart store in Saint Hyacinthe, Quebec, became the first North American employees of the monster anti-union retailer to achieve a union contract. On April 8, the firm legally had to accept a contract with UFCW Canada Local 501, implemented by a neutral arbitrator. Wal-Mart - the world's largest retailer - has fought unionization at its stores throughout North America through a variety of tactics.
The pact ended a four-year struggle by workers at the store for their rights. It includes "seniority rights, wage increases and a wage ladder free from favouritism, and, for the first time ever, a legally binding grievance procedure that provides more stability, fairness, and dignity in the workplace," the union said.
The two-year pact gives the workers an immediate 30-cent-an-hour (Canadian) raise and another 30-cent hike next April, the arbitrator ruled. The workers now earn between $8.60 and $14.90 an hour.
"Our St-Hyacinthe members have a lot to be proud of," said UFCW Canada President Wayne Hanley. "Because of their determination, and Québec's progressive labour laws, the workers have made history, but it was hard won. It's been a long, difficult road for the St-Hyacinthe members and their families."
This article was written by Press Associates, Inc., news service. Used by permission
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