Machinists Seek First Contract on Eve of Stampede!

Calgary, AB – Maintenance workers at the Calgary Exhibition and Stampede will attempt to draw public attention to their stalled contract negotiations as the Stampede opens for its 112th season.
The 42 members of IAMAW Local Lodge 99 are seeking their first collective agreement as well as a solution to their biggest problem. “Over half of this membership is part-time but they’re working 40 hours a week for only half time pay and minimal benefits,” said IAMAW Local Lodge 99 Vice President Jason Rockwell. “This isn’t just a recent problem, many of these workers have faced regular hours for half time pay for up to 15 years and compounding matters is the fact that unlike most Canadian workers, these people do not receive consecutive days off.”
Members of the Local Lodge will be handing out information pamphlets concerning the issues of the negotiations to the general public as they enter the Exhibition grounds today and throughout next week.