Around 300 members of Veoneer Safety Systems Canada in Markham, Ontario, part of IAM Union Local 2113, have ratified a new collective agreement that brings substantial improvements to their working conditions. The agreement, a result of tireless negotiation, includes several key enhancements aimed at supporting the health and financial wellbeing of the workforce.

One of the most notable victories in this new deal is the introduction of individual sick days, a first for the group. This marks a significant step in recognizing the personal health needs of employees. In addition, the collective agreement sees an increase in the healthcare spending account, providing workers with more flexibility in managing their healthcare costs.

Pension benefits also saw substantial improvements, ensuring better retirement security for the workers. Along with these enhancements, members will receive general wage increases, reflecting the company’s recognition of their efforts and commitment.

The bargaining committee, composed of Jamie Runco, Wilfred Lam, Penny Frangou, and Ralph Aquino, played a crucial role in securing these benefits. Despite the challenges presented by the company’s split into two bargaining units following a sale two years ago, the committee stayed focused on securing improvements. They worked tirelessly to protect and enhance the benefits in the collective agreement, advocating passionately for the needs of the membership.

This successful outcome reflects the strength and determination of Local 2113, ensuring that its members can now look forward to a more secure future with better health benefits and financial stability.

It’s been a busy start to the year for the IAM Union, with our General Vice-President of Canada (GVP) David Chartrand hitting the ground running.

From meeting with Executive members in Local 2323, Local 2413, Local 1295, and Local 235, along with the Chief of Staff Ralph Martin and Confidential Secretary Magaly Fadel, to planning even more visits to engage with members of all locals across Canada, this year is all about connection, collaboration, and driving our shared vision forward.

Since his first nomination, GVP David Chartrand has been committed to meeting and listening to every local, understanding their unique needs, and ensuring we are all working toward a stronger future. Unfortunately, the pandemic slowed these efforts, but now nothing can stand in our way.

We are here to stand strong for workers, especially in these challenging times that are affecting workers everywhere. That’s why we’re not only connecting with locals but also engaging with the Prime Minister at key events like the Canada-US Economic Summit and traveling to Washington for critical discussions with the Premiers. Our commitment to driving positive change remains firm, and we will keep pushing forward on all fronts.

The IAM Union is more energized than ever, and with more local visits and initiatives on the horizon, we are shaping a brighter future for all our members.

Together, we will keep pushing boundaries and setting the vision for success to give workers what they deserve.

Washington, D.C. – David Chartrand, General Vice-President (GVP) of the IAM Union in Canada, recently joined a roundtable discussion on tariffs at the Canadian-US American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO) meeting in Washington, D.C.

The gathering brought together Canadian Premiers, leaders from the Canadian Labour Congress (CLC), and labour representatives from both the U.S. and Canada to discuss the challenges and opportunities of tariffs and trade policies. Some of the key attendees included Bea Bruske, President of the CLC, P.J. Akeeagok, Premier of Nunavut, Wab Kinew, Premier of Manitoba, Liz Shuler, President of the AFL-CIO, and David Eby, Premier of British Columbia.

Held at the AFL-CIO headquarters, the meeting focused on protecting jobs on both sides of the border. It was made clear that international unions, which represent workers in both countries, are in a strong position to influence policies and must continue standing together in solidarity.

The AFL-CIO and CLC are committed to working in a coordinated effort and will continue collaborating on strategies to fight for workers’ rights and ensure their voices are heard in trade and tariff discussions. Both organizations recognize the power of unity in advocating for stronger protections for workers, pushing for policies that prioritize fair wages, safe working conditions, and job security.

Unions also discussed the impact of tariffs, noting that some workers are already losing jobs, and some employers fear tariffs could lead to closures and economic instability. However, the focus was on protecting workers, not politics. The Premiers also stressed their willingness to work with labour and anyone dedicated to protecting jobs and workers’ rights.

David Chartrand represented the IAM, along with Hassan Solomon, Political and Legislative Director, and Peter Greenberg, International Affairs Director at the IAM in the U.S. All three IAM representatives played key roles in advocating for policies that protect workers’ rights and promote sustainable economic growth for both nations.

The IAM’s commitment to worker-focused policies was a key point during the discussion, where leaders from both sides of the border expressed solidarity. The need for fair trade practices to protect jobs in important industries like manufacturing, aerospace, and automotive, while also safeguarding workers’ rights, was emphasized.

The meeting also tackled the issue of comments suggesting Canada could become the “51st state,” which was strongly rejected by all attendees, as such remarks are unwelcome.

In the end, the meeting emphasized that tariffs should be targeted at countries that are abusing trade practices. However, this is not the case with Canada, which remains committed to fair trade practices that support workers and communities.

As discussions continue, the IAM remains focused on advocating for long-term strategies that address current challenges while ensuring a fair and sustainable economic future.

Brian Bryant, International President of the 600,000-member IAM Union, and David Chartrand, IAM Canadian General Vice President, issued the following statement regarding President Trump’s announcement of a 25% tariff on all steel and aluminum imports into the United States: 

“A 25% tariff on Canadian steel and aluminum imports would be a gut punch to workers on both sides of the border. It will lead to job losses, higher consumer prices, and broken supply chains vital to industries like auto, aerospace and defense.

“These proposed tariffs will not protect or grow American jobs – it will destroy them. The U.S. and Canadian economies are linked at the hip. Slapping a 25% tariff on these critical materials from Canada would put our national security at risk. 

“Many of our members in aerospace and defense depend on parts and materials flowing freely between the U.S. and Canada. These tariffs will throw a wrench into the whole system, putting thousands of IAM Union and other jobs at risk. Our union doesn’t oppose tariffs, but we are advocates for strategic tariffs that protect domestic manufacturing and enhance national security. 

“Instead of fighting with our closest ally, we should collaborate with Canada to take on real threats like China and Mexico. Unfair trade practices by China and Mexico have decimated the American aluminum industry, not Canada. We need cooperation, not conflict, to build a strong North American manufacturing sector. 

“We urge President Trump to pull all stakeholders – government, business, and labor – together to forge a comprehensive strategy to protect and grow critical manufacturing in the United States and Canada.”

The IAM Union is one of North America’s largest and most diverse industrial trade unions, representing approximately 600,000 active and retired members in the aerospace, defense, airlines, railroad, transit, healthcare, automotive, and other industries across the United States and Canada.

On Thursday, February 13th, 2025, a handout of solidarity posters and pins took place at the MTU facility to congratulate the members on their strong strike vote mandate from the day prior and celebrate their unity. Members of the bargaining committee, Local 764, District 140 of the IAM, and representation from the IAM International were present and were warmly welcomed by a supportive membership.

Brother Dave Flowers, President and Directing General Chairperson (PDGC) for District 140, and Tania Canniff, General Chairperson for District 140, were there to show their support. The event also included Christy Slauenwhite, Recording Secretary for Local 764, David Marshall, Secretary-Treasurer for Local 764, and Chris Cheung, Health and Safety Coordinator for District 140 and President of Local 764. Steve Prinz, IAM Canadian Representative from the International, also joined to show solidarity.

The overwhelming mandate shows management that the skilled membership at MTU stands united in their pursuit to get the fair contract they deserve and are prepared to do whatever it takes to achieve it.

The members of Weldco Heavy Industries Ltd., part of District 14 Local 99 in Alberta, have once again demonstrated the incredible power of unity and solidarity. Thanks to the support of the membership and the dedication of the Negotiation Committee, the recent ratification of the new contract brings forward a range of significant gains that will improve the work environment and enhance the benefits package for all members and their families.

The successful ratification marks a significant milestone, as the collective efforts of the workers have secured important improvements in key areas such as wages, allowances, and safety provisions. The strength of the membership throughout this process has been a proof to the power of collaboration and shared purpose.

Contract highlights and key advancements include:

1. Wage Increases – A 5% increase in year one, 4% in year two, and 3% in year three.
2. Boot Allowance – An increase to $250.00.
3. New Equipment Allowance – $250.00 annually.
4. Living Out Allowance (LOA) – A $2,100.00 increase, with an additional $600.00 for condo members.
5. Safety Glasses Access – Improved access to industrial safety glasses for members.
6. PPE Language – Updated language to reflect current standards for personal protective equipment.
7. Mutuals Language – Enhanced language regarding mutual agreements between employer and employees.
8. Drug Testing – New language clarifying drug testing protocols.
9. Retro Pay – Clear provisions regarding retroactive pay for members.

The collective strength and commitment of the Weldco Heavy Industries Ltd. members were critical in achieving these improvements, ensuring that the future holds even greater opportunities for all members.

This new contract is a powerful reflection of what can be accomplished when workers come together in support of their rights and each other. Congratulations to all involved for securing a better and more prosperous future.

EVERY VOTE COUNTS
Advance Voting is Open
Make a plan to vote in advance today!

With Bill 89, the Minister of Labour, Jean Boulet, is attacking the rights of over 4.9 million workers in Quebec.

David Chartrand, General Vice-President of the IAM union in Canada, in a published article, condemns the intention to give the Minister of Labour the power to suspend the right to strike, which, according to him, leads to confrontation rather than good faith negotiations.

Chartrand emphasizes that this measure threatens the fundamental rights of workers, while risking harm to labour relations and escalating social tensions. Read the full article here.

Local 2413 members working at AAS Canada at Toronto Pearson International Airport secured significant victories at the bargaining table this week, marking a major milestone in their fight for better wages and benefits.

These dedicated workers are essential to the daily operations of the airport, handling the circulation of luggage carts used by passengers as they arrive at Toronto Pearson. Their hard work behind the scenes is crucial to ensuring smooth airport operations, and this contract represents a hard-earned win for their efforts.

The new contract was accepted with immense support as 94% of the members voted in favor.

Key provisions of the deal include the introduction of a wage scale that immediately increases wages by up to 13% based on seniority. The agreement also provides additional vacation weeks for workers with 15 and 20 years of service, a significant benefit for long-serving members.

General Chairperson Dan Janssen praised the bargaining committee’s hard work: “I have to give credit to the bargaining committee for their hard work and dedication throughout this process. They knew what the members wanted and held firm in order to achieve these gains.”

The IAM union represents thousands of airport workers, including hundreds of members across three departments at AAS Canada at Toronto Pearson. This contract victory serves as a reminder of the power of solidarity and the importance of strong representation at the bargaining table.

In a bid to address the challenges facing workers in an ever-evolving labour market, the Union-Led Advisory Table (ULAT) has brought together labour leaders from across Canada to advise the government on key labour and ministerial priorities. This unique initiative aims to ensure that the voices of workers are heard and that the needs of Canada’s workforce are addressed in policy decisions.

David Chartrand, General Vice-President of the IAM Union in Canada, was appointed in 2023 to the advisory table, where he works alongside 14 other dedicated members.

Together, they help guide the Canadian government in making informed decisions that benefit workers. The members are selected for their deep knowledge of the labour market, with a particular emphasis on equity, diversity, and inclusion. These leaders are recognized not only for their expertise in labour issues but also for their outstanding leadership within their communities and beyond.

The ULAT is a critical response to the changing nature of work, where technology, globalization, and shifting economic conditions are transforming industries at a rapid pace.

The advisory table’s mandate ended on October 31, 2024. Following this, the 2025 Unions Power Prosperity Report, which outlines key issues and recommendations, is now available. You can find it here.