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VANCOUVER—Members of Unifor Local 433 voted 96 per cent in favour of a new four-year contract that improves the recall notice for laid off workers.
“The hospitality industry has struggled during the pandemic, but Unifor members have worked hard to fight for their rights to be recalled fairly,” said Jerry Dias, Unifor National President. “Unifor collective agreements help ensure income security and lead the hospitality industry.”
The new agreement increases the temporary recall period from 18 months to 24 months, paid benefits during COVID-19, and increasing the severance provisions in the agreement. This extension provides certainly for jobs during a time where other hotels are refusing to extend these provisions. Other gains include wage increases of more than two per cent, panic buttons for workers at risk of harassment, and stronger protections in the event of any residential conversion of the hotel.
“No worker should have to go on strike over their recall rights. No employer should get away with using COVID as an excuse to get rid of loyal workers,” said Gavin McGarrigle, Unifor Western Regional Director.
While Unifor is making recall notice gains at the bargaining table, the union is also pushing the B.C. government to improve provincial employment standards for all workers. Unifor’s policy effort is also aimed at improved provincial standards for paid sick leave and workers’ compensation benefits.
“Unifor isn’t just satisfied with making important gains at the bargaining table,” said McGarrigle. “We are a social union that demands fairness and economic security for all working people.”
“The Residence Inn contract builds on the recent success of negotiations at the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver and will carry forward to upcoming negotiations at the Hotel Grand Pacific and the Coast Coal Harbour,” said Mario Santos, the Unifor National Representative that lead the negotiations.
Unifor is Canada’s largest union in the private sector, representing 315,000 workers in every major area of the economy. The union advocates for all working people and their rights, fights for equality and social justice in Canada and abroad, and strives to create progressive change for a better future.
To arrange for interviews, in-person or via Skype/Facetime, please contact Unifor Communications Representative Ian Boyko at @email or 778-903-6549 (cell).
