SNOLAB Under Fire from Employees Over Unfair Collective Agreement Negotiations

SNOLAB, a research laboratory in Sudbury, Ontario has been hit with criticism from its workers who are members of the United Steelworkers union (USW) Local 2020-59. The workers, disappointed with SNOLAB’s refusal to negotiate a fair collective agreement that reflects the current cost of living, have unanimously rejected a substandard contract offer from their employer.

SNOLAB is known for its world-class facilities and underground laboratory in Vale’s Creighton Mine where employees work tirelessly to gain global recognition including a Nobel prize. However, despite their contributions to the lab’s success, workers have been offered wages below current standards and have been asked to make concessions.

This news comes just months after SNOLAB received significant public funding aimed at creating jobs and attracting talented individuals to Canada. However, it seems that this commitment to valuing employees’ knowledge and experience is not being reflected in the current contract negotiations with workers.

The USW is calling on SNOLAB to return to the bargaining table and offer a compensation package that is fair and reflective of the employees’ contributions. The union believes that at this pivotal moment, the employer has the opportunity to show that they value their workers’ dedication and expertise.

For further information about this matter, media contacts can be made with Tracy Nguyen, USW Staff Representative, Pascal Boucher, USW Area Co-ordinator or Lorei Leigh De Los Reyes, USW Communications.