Nearly 1,000 workers at Cargill Dunlop in Guelph will return to work on Monday after a 41-day strike, having ratified a new collective agreement on Saturday. The unionized employees, represented by Local 175 of the United Food & Commercial Workers (UFCW), had initiated the strike after rejecting a previous deal on May 26.
“The power is in the hands of our members through their democratic vote, and the members at Cargill Dunlop used their vote to make their voices heard,” said Kelly Tosato, President of UFCW Local 175.
Tosato acknowledged the difficulties of both initiating and concluding a strike, adding, “These members took a stand against a huge corporation and they should be proud of their strength and courage.”
The new agreement includes several key improvements for workers. Wage increases amounting to $3.75 per hour will be phased in over the agreement’s duration, starting with a $2 per hour increase in the first year, retroactive to January 1, 2024. Workers will also receive a $500 contract renewal incentive payment.
Significant enhancements to benefits were also secured. Dental coverage will increase to $2,000 per year, and lifetime caps on various dental services will be eliminated. Short Term Disability (STD) benefits will now cover up to 70% of wages, with a maximum weekly payment of $668, an increase of $143 per week. Bereavement leave has been extended from four to five days for the death of a spouse, child, or parent.
Despite the end of the strike, not all workers may return to full hours immediately as the plant resumes operations. To support those affected, the union will continue pro-rated strike pay for the first week for workers who do not receive full hours.
The strike, which began at 12:01 a.m. on May 27, followed a decisive rejection of an earlier settlement by 82% of voting members. The strike vote held in April had garnered 99% support from the membership.
Cargill Dunlop processes approximately 1,500 head of cattle daily, according to the union.
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Wage Increase | $3.75 per hour over the agreement |
| First Year Increase | $2 per hour, retroactive to January 1, 2024 |
| Contract Renewal Incentive | $500 lump sum |
| Dental Coverage | $2,000 per year, removal of lifetime caps on certain services |
| Short Term Disability (STD) | 70% coverage, up to $668 per week (increase of $143 per week) |
| Bereavement Leave | Five days for the death of a spouse, child, or parent (up from four days) |