MDA Space workers ratify agreement ending their 9-week strike

Unifor Local 112 and 673 members at MDA Space ratified a new collective agreement. (CNW Group/Unifor)

BRAMPTON — Workers at MDA Space agreed to a new collective agreement to bring a nine-week strike at the aerospace manufacturer’s global headquarters in Brampton to an end.

“I am proud of the determination our members showed, fighting for their rights on the picket line for nine long weeks to achieve a strong collective agreement at MDA Space,” said Unifor national president Lana Payne. “Thanks to the support of Unifor members throughout the GTA and the tenacity of our bargaining team, we have made significant improvements that ensure a better future for all.”

Unifor Local 112 and 673 members at MDA Space initiated strike action on April 8. The collective agreement expired in October 2023 with bargaining taking place over 9 months to allow for the relocation of work to a newly built facility.

The agreement includes a total minimum wage increase of 9 per cent over its term, plus quarterly Cost of Living Allowance (COLA) payments up to $0.80 per hour. Initially, workers will receive a minimum 7 per cent wage increase with the $0.80 per hour COLA folded into the existing wage rates.

Workers will also receive retroactive pay for hours worked between October 2023 and May 2024, amounting to a minimum of 3.2 per cent including $0.34 per hour in COLA payments. Additionally, employer contributions to the defined benefit pension plan will increase retroactively to August 5, 2020, by $3.

“Our members made this agreement happen with their solidarity on the picket line and the diligent work of our negotiating team to make several key gains,” said Unifor Local 112 president John Turner. “From higher wages to improvements in health and dental benefits, this agreement will serve our members well at a time of increasing economic uncertainty and rising living costs.”

The agreement also provides a new paid holiday for the first Monday in August, two paid personal emergency days, expanded job classifications, and secured new work for the bargaining unit. Improvements for Skilled Trades include seniority protection, wage growth for apprentices, and a wage premium for certified machinists.

There are 45 members of Unifor Local 112 and 673 at the MDA Space facility in Brampton which is the home of the Canadarm and other space robotics, satellite and defence projects.

The new collective agreement expires October 1, 2026.