Sleeman-Unibroue strike ends with new agreement

Seven-week walkout over overtime demands: Union

Sleeman-Unibroue strike ends with new agreement
The workers will get a 6.5 per cent wage increase for the contract period, said the union. SHUTTERSTOCK

The strike at the Sleeman-Unibroue plant in Chambly, Que., ended after an agreement reached between the parties on July 20 was ratified by about 80 workers affiliated with Teamsters Local 931, said the union.

Management's overtime demand — which was the main bone of contention between union members and plant management — was ultimately withdrawn. The employer has also agreed to improve labour relations, which have been acrimonious for several years, according to Teamsters.

The new collective agreement — which will be in effect for the next five years — meets the expectations of the parties. The workers will get a 6.5 per cent wage increase for the contract period, said the union.

"Our members wanted to be respected, and our discussions with the employer before the arbitrator last week indicate that we are going in the right direction," said Gerry Boutin, Teamsters Local 931 president. "I think that this is an important victory for our members who were looking for long-term industrial peace."

The labour dispute have lasted seven weeks.

Latest stories