2014.05.27 | CWA Canada Local 30213 | Canadian Media Guild

 

Saint John 7 reach deal after 2 years on picket line

After almost two years on a picket line, seven employees of a private radio network in New Brunswick have secured a tentative first collective agreement.

It has been a long haul since the workers at three radio stations in Saint John, owned by Maritime Broadcasting System (MBS), signed cards in May 2011 to join the Canadian Media Guild (CMG). They’ve been through more than two years of negotiations, a strike and lockout.

CWA Canada President Martin O'Hanlon said the deal is a testament to the perseverance and solidarity of the Saint John 7.

"Many times over the last two years, they could have done the easy thing and called it quits. But in rain, sleet and snow, they stood up for fairness and the right to a decent wage," O'Hanlon said.

"This truly was a David versus Goliath battle and the Saint John 7 can return to work with their heads held high!"

The four-year agreement, which was reached with the assistance of a federal mediator and has yet to be ratified, includes language on job security, scheduling and dispute resolution. It also includes a signing bonus and new wage scales.