The New Brunswick government has reached a four-year collective agreement with more than 750 correctional officers and other public safety workers, ending contract negotiations that began in 2022.
The Canadian Union of Public Employees Local 1251 represents correctional officers, cooks, laundry and custodial workers, and human services counsellors, according to the province. The union membership will receive wage increases totalling $5 per hour over the contract term.
Wage increases retroactive to 2022
Workers will see their hourly pay increase by $1 in the first year, $1.10 in the second year, $1.30 in the third year, and $1.60 in the fourth year, according to the government. The increases are retroactive to June 16, 2022.
“These employees serve critical roles in our public safety sector, and we appreciate their dedication and hard work,” said Finance and Treasury Board Minister René Legacy in a statement Wednesday.
Additional benefits target retention
The agreement includes new incentives and premiums designed to address recognition and retention issues, according to the province. The deal also increases the safety boot allowance and adds premiums for evening and weekend shifts.
The vacation entitlement structure has been revised to give employees greater access to vacation days, the government said.
Legacy thanked negotiators from both sides for reaching the agreement. The province said all collective agreements with the provincial government are available online.
CUPE Local 1251’s membership works in New Brunswick’s correctional facilities and related public safety operations. The union represents workers in various roles from front-line correctional officers to support staff including cooks and custodial workers.
