Workers at Canterbury Place Retirement Residence join the union – UFCW 175 & 633

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Toronto – September 19, 2020 – Employees at the Canterbury Place Retirement Residence in Toronto are the newest members of UFCW Locals 175 & 633 after recently saying “Yes!” to joining the union.

Some of the workers at Canterbury Place who approached the Local Union’s organizers recognized the benefits of belonging to a union as they knew of other health care workers who were already members of the union. Despite having a workers’ association previously, the employer did not act upon most proposals that were put forth by the workers.

Wages at this retirement home lag other unionized homes that are represented by UFCW Locals 175 & 633. Another major concern for employees at Canterbury Place was seniority and hours of work. Even employees with significant lengths of service could receive less desirable shifts if, for example, they took a leave of absence because they would lose their competitive number of hours.

The members at Canterbury Place look forward to putting forth proposals to improve the workplace in their first collective agreement. These proposals include better wages, benefits, health and safety language, and a grievance procedure. In addition, the members hope to work towards better seniority rules, establishing firm job duties, holding management accountable to its commitments, and of course, gaining job security through their union membership.

The new bargaining unit is comprised of roughly 60 employees who work as health and wellness attendants, dining services attendants, Registered Practical Nurses (RPNs), kitchen staff, Unlicensed Care Providers (UCPs), team leaders, reception staff, housekeepers, life enrichment assistants, and maintenance and temporary workers. To read more about the union victory at Canterbury Place, 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 the outstanding work of UFCW 175 & 633, visit their website.

How can I join the union?

Are you a non-unionized worker who would like to enjoy the benefits of a UFCW Canada collective agreement? Do you and your co-workers want to gain the union advantage at work? Join Canada’s best union, UFCW Canada, to make your workplace better today. Click here to join the union now.