Collective Bargaining Update – June 25

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June 25, 2009

Talks between the University and CAW Local 555 on a new collective agreement are currently scheduled to resume July 9. This latest round of bargaining will follow three days of talks held last week in which both sides agreed on the contract's non-monetary provisions but did not narrow differences on the key issues.

“After three more days of talks last week, we remain far apart on the significant monetary issues,” says John Capone, dean of Science and chair of the University bargaining committee.

The key monetary issues that are outstanding include basic rates of pay, the pension plan for future employees, post-retirement benefits for future employees, pension contribution rates and the JCQ process.

“We all wish McMaster could be spared the short and long-term effects of the global meltdown that has severely impacted the local, provincial, national and global economies. It can be frustrating when events across the country and around the world affect our daily lives. But it would be very irresponsible to ignore the economic reality. Together we must ensure McMaster charts a sustainable and responsible course that balances the financial recognition of the important work of our employees with the University's ability to fulfill its promises to students and the community,” Capone says.

The University's three-year offer includes:

  • Investments of approximately $500,000 in new training programs for CAW members to continue the University's commitment to develop a capable and highly skilled workforce
  • Improvements to compassionate and family leave provisions
  • Maintaining current pension and post-retirement benefits for all existing employees
  • Increased employee pension contributions to the Salaried Employee's Pension Plan
  • Introduction of a new retirement plan for future employees that does not impact or affect existing employees today or into the future
  • Step increases averaging 1.5% in the first year for employees who are below Step 10
  • A $1000 signing bonus for employees who are Step 10 or above who don't normally receive step increases
  • Up to 4.4% increases in basic rates of pay over years two and three of the contract in addition to continued step progression in those years

    • “The University's fair and balanced offer provides increases in compensation for all current employees and allows the University to keep promises made to them on pensions and retirement benefits. We're confident the CAW leadership will recognize the magnitude of the economic downturn and will partner with McMaster as we move forward in a responsible and sustainable manner.”

    The union applied for conciliation last week and a provincial conciliator will arrange to meet with both parties to help facilitate an agreement.