Unifor: Strathcona Paperworks Workers Vote 94% in Favour of Strike

Unifor members at Strathcona Paperworks voted 94% in favour of strike action as negotiations with their employer have stalled.

“Strathcona Paperworks has enjoyed record profits over the last few years but they aren’t coming to the table with an offer that recognizes the workers behind those profits,” said Lana Payne, Unifor National President. “These members are ready to stand up for themselves and the union stands with them all the way.”

Previous contracts at Strathcona Paperworks have been in line with the pattern agreement set by Unifor members in the forestry sector, but bargaining stalled when offers continued to fall short. The Local filed for conciliation and awaits dates to be set in January 2023.

“We are hopeful going into conciliation in the new year, but the strike vote shows just how determined members are to see a better offer from the employer,” said Ryan Wagar, President of Unifor Local 492 representing the workers at Strathcona Paperworks. “We were at work every day of the pandemic when others were told to stay at home, and they made record amounts of clay-coated boxboard that’s used in food, beverage and other boxes. The business is extremely profitable because of the work we do, so there’s no reason to deny us the wage pattern.”

Unifor represents 120 workers in production and skilled trades at Strathcona Paperworks.  

Unifor is Canada’s largest union in the private sector and represents 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.

Contact:

Shelley Amyotte – National Communications Representative – shelley.amyotte@unifor.org – (902) 717-7491

Source: Unifor