EACOM – USW Agreement at Gogama Sawmill

The United Steelworkers union and the management of EACOM Timber Corporation are pleased to announce the ratification of their new five-year collective agreement at the Gogama sawmill.

The discussion was centered on constructive exchanges regarding employee needs and how best to meet them. The new agreement focuses on enhancing the employee experience, health and safety, and working conditions, notably in terms of providing greater flexibility.

“The demographic context in the area is changing rapidly, making it ever more important for EACOM to continue being a stable economic driver and community partner. We always strive for a mutually beneficial solution,” explains Wade Zammit, Chief Operating Officer at EACOM. “Our people are at the center of our operations and the emphasis we place on taking care of them is what makes the sawmill such an attractive place to work, especially at the Gogama sawmill, which is very much a family business.”

“Members of the United Steelworkers Local 1-2010 are divided and have different opinions about the outcome of the negotiations, as it was ratified at only 51%. Now, it’s time to put all efforts in building, improving the relation, communication, trust, and collaboration between the parties at the Gogama facility,” states Jacques Jean, President of the United Steelworkers Local 1-2010.

EACOM employs 75 people at its Gogama sawmill, 67 of whom are members of the United Steelworkers. In addition to proving the North American housing market with sustainably managed, third-party certified quality wood products, the Gogama sawmill has been providing stable employment to the region for nearly 40 years.

About EACOM Timber Corporation

EACOM Timber Corporation is a major Canadian wood products company. Operations include the manufacturing, marketing, and distribution of lumber and wood-based value-added products, and the management of forest resources. EACOM owns seven sawmills, a remanufacturing facility, and an engineered I-joist plant with over 1,200 employees. The Company is committed to investing in strong assets, including healthy forests, advanced technology, and talented people.

About United Steelworkers

The USW is the largest private sector union in North America with more than 225,000 members in Canada and more than 850,000 members continent-wide. The USW is Canada’s most diverse union, representing men and women working in every sector of the economy.

Contact:

Biliana Necheva – Media Contact – Biliana.Necheva@EACOM.ca – (514) 867-7245

Source: EACOM Timber Corporation