CAMBRIDGE, Ontario, July 31, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Cambridge Brass workers are standing on the picket line for wage and pension improvements and the right to sign up for shifts once a year.
More than 100 members of United Steelworkers Local 4045 began their strike against Cambridge Brass on July 19, demanding seniority rights, improved pensions and fair wages.
“The only way we’re going to get improvements is through solidarity. It’s not just about money, we want to be respected. These workers deserve something in return for all the sacrifices they’ve made during COVID that have kept this company going,” said Jim Clegg, President of USW Local 4045.
Many workers have spent their entire lives working at Cambridge Brass, making fittings for outdoor water systems. Some workers have 20, 30 and more than 40 years of seniority. One of these workers has devoted 51 years of his life to the job.
The company operates three shifts: day, afternoon and night. Previously, workers were able to choose their shift, with those with the most seniority going first. The company ended this practice and refused to give workers an annual opportunity to apply for shifts based on their seniority.
“Since the pandemic hit in 2020, Steelworkers have been negotiating for better terms,” said Myles Sullivan, USW District 6 Director. “Even though inflation is slowing, the cost of living remains very high. When a contract is up, it’s time to make improvements. Cambridge Brass must show respect for these workers by offering them a fair contract that reflects their contribution to the company’s success.”
Workers are picketing 24 hours a day at 140 Orion Place, Cambridge, Ontario, N1T 1R9.
About the United Steelworkers:
The United Steelworkers (USW) represents 225,000 members in nearly every economic sector in Canada and is the largest private sector union in North America, with 850,000 members in Canada, the United States and the Caribbean.
Every year, thousands of workers choose to join the United Steelworkers union because of its strong reputation for creating healthier, safer and more respectful workplaces, and negotiating better working conditions and fairer compensation, including good wages, benefits and pension plans.
To know more :
Myles Sullivan, Director of District 6 of the United Steelworkers, 416-243-8792
Mary Lou Scott, United Steelworkers Regional Coordinator, [email protected], 519-276-0325
Shannon Devine, United Steelworkers Communications, [email protected], 416-938-4402
A photo accompanying this announcement is available at the following address:
