Unifor is pressing Walmart Canada to move forward with contract negotiations for its truck drivers in British Columbia following news that Canada Cartage will acquire Walmart Fleet ULC, the retailer’s trucking operation.
The union, which represents 96 local and highway drivers at Walmart Fleet ULC, said the sale has delayed scheduled contract talks that were set to begin on Jan. 31.
“Warehousing and logistics workers have a right to a union, and we expect the company to bargain a first collective agreement with our members as soon as possible,” said Unifor National President Lana Payne.
Walmart Canada told Unifor that there will be no immediate changes to employment and that drivers’ jobs will continue uninterrupted. However, the union said it is reviewing legal options to respond to the situation.
Unifor is seeking a contract that addresses concerns such as job security, loss of hours and working conditions. It also alleges Walmart froze wages after drivers unionized in December and is calling for an end to what it describes as anti-union tactics.
The union has also filed an application with the Canada Industrial Relations Board (CIRB) regarding a change that has seen some work shifted to contractors, resulting in lower hourly wages for drivers.
Unifor also represents Canada Cartage workers in Oshawa, Ont., and Winnipeg. Teamsters Canada represents Canada Cartage employees in British Columbia.
The Walmart-Canada Cartage deal is expected to close in the coming weeks.
