UFCW 175 & 633 resolve human rights grievance against Loblaws

Mississauga, Ont. – September 30, 2020 – UFCW Canada Locals 175 & 633 have successfully resolved grievances filed on behalf of two members working for Loblaw-banner stores in the Ottawa area regarding its policy on benefits coverage for employees over the age of 65.

The grievance challenged the company’s denial of benefits coverage to two employees aged 65 and over. The two employees work full-time for Loblaws, and together, have a combined total of more than 79 years of service with the company. When those employees reached the age of 65, the company terminated their benefit coverage.

It was the union’s position that this practice was discriminatory and unfair, especially to employees who have dedicated their careers to working for Loblaws. UFCW Locals 175 & 633 argued that this policy demonstrated age-based discrimination contrary to the collective agreement and the Ontario Human Rights Code.

Ultimately, the union and the company entered into Minutes of Settlement which detailed a resolution where full-time employees who have reached the age of 65 will continue to be eligible for most benefits under the health and welfare plan provided for in the collective agreement.

“We’re pleased that this grievance resulted in a tremendous success,” says UFCW Canada Local 175 President Shawn Haggerty. “This agreement marks a true advancement of fairness and equality in workers’ rights.”

The Grievance & Arbitration Procedure is one of the most important protections contained in a union collective agreement and is often one of the main reasons that workers vote to join a union. Click here to learn more about the benefits of a UFCW Canada collective agreement

 To read more about UFCW 175 & 633’s successful grievance, click here.

UFCW Canada Locals 175 & 633 represents 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.