Permanent unionized employees at the Alberni Golf Club in Port Alberni, B.C., returned to work Dec. 16 after the employer agreed to the union’s interpretation of disputed collective agreement language.
The settlement, reached Dec. 15, ended a labour dispute that saw all nine unionized workers laid off between September and November, according to SEIU Local 2.
“It’s such a relief to be back at work, especially at this time of year,” said Carl Wagner, an employee with nearly 14 years of service. “A heartfelt thanks to all those that supported us in both the labour and local communities. We couldn’t have done this without you.”
Settlement terms
Under the agreement, the golf club’s management recognized seasonal employees’ recall rights and agreed to apply wage increases based on days worked to seasonal employees, not just permanent staff. Seasonal employees will receive backpay at the increased wage rates and higher vacation pay, and will receive free golf at the club.
The BC Federation of Labour has called off its boycott of the club.
Timeline of layoffs
Six unionized seasonal workers were laid off after Labour Day, earlier than the usual mid-October seasonal layoff. Most had worked at the club for five to eight years.
The golf club then laid off the remaining three unionized full-time permanent employees Nov. 14.
“This has been an incredibly difficult time for the entire full-time crew, especially being laid off just before Christmas,” said Ak Manhas, who was laid off for the first time in his 38 years of employment. “Your support truly made a difference in helping us get through the challenging situation. We are happy to be back at work with our collective agreement respected.”
More than 50 community supporters joined workers at a rally Nov. 23, and workers held a town hall meeting Dec. 8.
SEIU Local 2 represents 20,000 workers in British Columbia, Alberta, Manitoba, Ontario, New Brunswick and Nova Scotia.
