TIMMINS -- A large lumber operation in northern Ontario is looking at six years of labour peace ahead.
Eacom has a new deal with the United Steelworkers union that will provide stability for the company and for about 160 workers
Union negotiations can be tough, so when a bargaining process is completed quickly, and with little tension, it's a relief for both sides.
Stacey Lefebvre is the human resources manager for Eacom.
"The most important thing was to make sure that we had good employee relations and, going forward, building that relationship and having the employees having trust in us and we trust them. I think for us, it was a matter of enhancing that opportunity and looking forward to the next six years," said Lefebvre.
Lefebvre says such a long-spanning agreement relieves the stress of renegotiating in three years, but she says it adds some pressure to "future-proof" the contract by accounting for cost-of-living increases, particularly when certain costs in the north can be more expensive.
"Well, you always have your standard clauses, your wage increases, and things like that. We did have some benefit enhancements in regards to pension. We had some working conditions that we really emphasized and we made more positive for the employees," said Lefebvre.
The steelworkers union issued a statement along with the announcement of the new contract, saying:
"As always, the union is looking for an agreement that is fair and beneficial for both parties, and we believe this was achieved during this round of negotiations. Now, it’s time to continue building on and improving the already great relation, communication, trust, and collaboration between both parties."
Eacom officials say they’re confident that the new agreement will hold up over the next six years.
They say the contract included renewed commitments to workplace safety, such as emphasizing work boots and goggles, but they note that whether it’s in writing or not, safety is always a priority, since everyone wants to get home safely at the end of the work day.
