OTTAWA, ONTARIO, SEPTEMBER 23, 2010 - Today, the Honourable Lisa Raitt, Canada's Minister of Labour, congratulated the Maritime Employers Association, Montréal, Quebec, and the Syndicat des débardeurs (Canadian Union of Public Employees, Longshoremen's Union, Local 375) for renewing their collective agreement and sustaining continued service at the Port of Montréal.
"Our economic stability relies on the productivity of Canada's ports; I am pleased that the parties have successfully reached an agreement," said Minister Raitt. "I would also like to thank the federal mediators for helping the parties come to a resolution, which will provide a stable and healthy work environment at the Port of Montréal."
The collective agreement, covering a unit of 830 longshoremen, had expired on December 31, 2008. The renewal was reached through extensive bargaining with the assistance of mediators from the Government of Canada's Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service.
The Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service was established to provide dispute resolution and dispute prevention assistance to trade unions and employers under the jurisdiction of the Canada Labour Code. Mediation aims to achieve a collective agreement and avoid a work stoppage.
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This news release is available in alternative formats upon request.
For further information (media only):
Jocelyne Turner
Press Secretary
Office of Minister Raitt
819-953-5646
Media Relations Office
Human Resources and Skills
Development Canada
819-994-5559
