Food processing members at Fearmans Pork gain better benefits – UFCW 175

Burlington, Ont. – May 15, 2019 – UFCW Canada Local 175 members working at the Fearmans Pork plant in Burlington, Ontario have achieved a new union contract that provides better benefits, higher wages, and more.

In the first year of the agreement, wages will increase by 75 cents per hour for employees who fall under Classes 1 through 5. Subsequent across-the-board increases will total $1.80 over the life of the contract.

Fearmans’ members will also benefit from improvements to the boot and tool allowances. In addition, several employees have been reclassified and, as a result, will receive an additional wage adjustment of 40 cents per hour. As well, the union negotiating committee achieved better language when it comes to Saturday work paid at time and a half.

Benefits will improve to provide enhanced Life and AD&D insurance of $50,000, up from $40,000. Vision care coverage now covers $250, up from $200, and workers will also now receive 100 percent coverage, up to $300 per year, for physiotherapy costs. Bereavement language now includes two additional paid days’ leave.

Currently, the Fearmans plant employs 966 full-time UFCW 175 members covered by a strong collective agreement.

The Union Negotiating Committee consisted of Plant Chair John Smukavich, Chief Steward Alan Reston, WSIB Co-Chair Nelson Pereira, UFCW 175 members Jonathan Mangadap and Rui Valentim, and UFCW 175 Union Representative Mike Mattioli.

To read more about the new union contract at Fearmans Pork, click here.

UFCW Canada Locals 175 & 633 represent more than 70,000 hard-working Ontarians in almost every sector of the economy. To learn more about UFCW 175 & 633, visit their website.

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