Tuesday June 12, 2007
For Immediate Release
Miramichi, N.B. – After working more than 11 months to organize the workers and then spending another eight months in successfully defeating employer objections in front of the New Brunswick Department of Labour, the employees of Towne Ford are now members of the IAMAW.
The new 14-member unit consists of Auto Techs, Fast Lane Techs, Service Advisors and Stockroom Attendants. They are the latest members to join IAMAW Local Lodge 2418 which now represents four New Brunswick auto dealerships, three in Miramichi and one in Bathurst.
“This marks the first occasion where the Machinists have successfully organized a new unit and obtained their first collective agreement at the same time,” said Brian Beaton, IAMAW Grand Lodge Representative. “This agreement will serve as an organizing template for future organizing drives of new and unorganized auto dealers within the province of New Brunswick.”
The one and half year agreement which expires December 31, 2008 provides every unit member with wage increases ranging from 60 cents to $3.50 per hour depending upon their classification. This agreement also provides a full range of benefits, an Employer Pension Plan, a letter of understanding on Revenue Sharing, management/labour meetings and overall contract language covering day to day work and long term employment. “Our committee stuck together and dealt with the obstacles as they presented themselves,” said Beaton. “This is a good first agreement and a great starting point for their collective future.”
The IAMAW represents more than 700,000 active and retired members in North America and administers more than 5,000 contracts in transportation, woodworking, aerospace, manufacturing and defense-related industries.
For further information:
Brian Beaton – IAMAW Grand Lodge Representative
506-785-4552/506-381-3988
Bill Trbovich – IAMAW Director of Communications
416-386-1789 ext 31/416-735-9765
