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In October 2023, SNOLAB received significant public funding with the goal of creating jobs and attracting talented individuals to Canada. However, the current contract negotiations with workers have not reflected this commitment to valuing employees’ knowledge and experience.
Workers who are members of the United Steelworkers union (USW) at the SNOLAB research laboratory in Sudbury, Ontario have unanimously rejected a substandard contract offer from their employer. The workers, part of USW Local 2020-59, are disappointed with SNOLAB’s refusal to negotiate a fair collective agreement that reflects the current cost of living.
Despite their contributions to the lab’s success, workers have been offered wages below current standards and have been asked to make concessions. 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.
At SNOLAB, employees work in world-class facilities, including an underground laboratory in Vale’s Creighton Mine. The work they do has gained global recognition, including a Nobel prize. However, it seems that this recognition does not translate into fair treatment for the workers who make it possible.
For further information, media contacts can be made with Tracy Nguyen, USW Staff Representative, Pascal Boucher, USW Area Co-ordinator or Lorei Leigh De Los Reyes
