McMaster University Staff Association (MUSA) members have voted overwhelmingly in support of joining the Canadian Auto Workers union (CAW). The transfer vote, conducted by the Canadian Labour Congress (CLC), took place Nov. 24 and 25.

“It has been both an interesting and informative process since becoming a direct charter of the CLC, researching and investigating a number of other unions, affiliates of the CLC, and determining which would be the best 'fit' for MUSA,” said MUSA president Mina Sarajcic.

In total, 1,014 ballots were cast, translating to nearly half of the MUSA membership. The vote determined the union that will represent members in the CLC transfer process. MUSA will now negotiate a formal merger agreement with the CAW.

CAW received 650 votes, followed by United Steelworkers with 178, Canadian Union of Public Employees with 95 and Public Service Alliance of Canada with 65. There were 26 spoiled ballots.

“I would like to thank all of the members who came out and exercised their democratic right to vote. I would also like to thank all of the unions above for their interest in representing us,” Sarajcic said. “We look forward to working with all the unions through our new home union, in advancing the interests of all workers.”