Members of the Union of Technicians and Artisans of the French Network struck the government-owned company for five weeks and approved a new contract offer by the company by a 79 percent margin February 3.

On one of the main issues, "impartition" or contracting out, the company had wanted a free hand. The agreement limits what can be contracted out to the 5 percent that had already been given up in the previous collective agreement and improves separation pay or retraining provisions for affected workers. The union also made gains for temporary workers, who make up 25 percent of the work force.

Technician Marc Doiron said he was disappointed with the wage increase but it was a tradeoff for gains on other issues. "I wasn't personally affected by many of the issues, but was worth it. We're better prepared for next time."

Joanne Pritchard is a member of the Union of Needletrades, Industrial and Textile Employees.  
 
 
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