The bargaining team for Agriculture Union members employed by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency left the latest round of contract talks optimistic that an end to lengthy and difficult negotiations is in sight.
Our team met in Ottawa with employer negotiators October 16 to 20. Contrary to recent bargaining sessions, productive talks and movement were made on all outstanding items.
Negotiations will resume November 6 to 10. Should a deal not emerge at that time, our bargaining agent, the Public Service Alliance of Canada, intends to file for conciliation. This will result in the Minister of Labour appointing a third-party Public Interest Commission board to assist both sides in coming to an agreement.
Still, hopes are that our CFIA members will soon have a new collective agreement. In the meantime, you can sign up HERE on the PSAC Web site to receive bargaining updates as they are issued.