Unifor members at SaskTel have ratified a new three-year collective agreement that introduces protocols for addressing working conditions and incorporates Artificial Intelligence (AI) considerations into the contract.
The agreement, supported by Unifor Locals 1-S and 2-S, was announced on June 21, 2024.
“Unifor members are at the core of successful Saskatchewan Crown corporations like SaskTel,” said Unifor National President Lana Payne. “This agreement helps make workers part of the discussion to maintain high-quality services while protecting good jobs.”
A key feature of the new contract is the inclusion of AI in the definition of Technological Change. This provision ensures that workers are involved in decisions regarding the use of AI in their roles. Additionally, a committee will be established to review the contracting out of union work, a significant concern for the members.
“Workers must be involved in the decisions that impact their working conditions,” said Gavin McGarrigle, Unifor Western Regional Director. “Contracting out degrades the quality of service and kills good jobs in Saskatchewan.”
The agreement also provides an 8% wage increase over its term and includes improvements in scheduling provisions for part-time workers, as well as an expansion of work-from-home policies.
Unifor represents over 2,500 workers at SaskTel across nearly every region of Saskatchewan.