Quebec-based Sleeman-Unibroue workers go on strike

Seniority rights biggest issue: Teamsters

Quebec-based Sleeman-Unibroue workers go on strike
The brewery — which is a subsidiary of Japan’s Sapporo — handles beer brands like Sleeman, Sapporo, Blanche de Chambly, la Maudite and la Fin du monde. GOOGLE STREET VIEW

After a breakdown in negotiations, about 80 workers at Sleeman-Unibroue in Chambly, Que. to go on strike June 8.

The workers are members of Teamsters Local Union 931.

A final offer from the company was presented at a union meeting on June 3 and was subsequently rejected by 93 per cent of workers, said the union.

"Our members feel disrespected and that's why they walked off the job," said Gerry Boutin, president of local 931. "We also want to make it clear that salaries and pensions are not an issue."

Seniority rights are at the heart of the labour dispute between the Teamsters and Sleeman-Unibroue, according to Teamsters.

Also, the work environment has led to more than 200 grievances being filed in recent months on a variety of collective agreement issues. Acrimonious labour relations led to problems at the bargaining table, said the union.

Negotiations began on Nov. 7, 2016, one month prior to the expiration of the collective agreement.

After just one meeting with the employer, the Teamsters asked for help from a mediator.

The brewery — which is a subsidiary of Japan’s Sapporo — handles beer brands like Sleeman, Sapporo, Blanche de Chambly, la Maudite and la Fin du monde.

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