Prince George, B.C. – After about a year that included difficult negotiations and mediation, there’s labour peace to report in McBride.

The Service, Health, Manufacturing and Allied Workers Union, CLAC Local 501, representing employees of the Village of McBride and McBride Community Forest, finalized their first collective agreement with the Village yesterday.

The BC Labour Relations Board assisted the parties after negotiations stalled last fall.

“The agreement provides for wage and benefit improvements, increased sick time allotments, job security measures and a robust conflict resolution process,” read a CLAC news release.

Moving forward, CLAC spokesperson Audrey Wilkinson said the deal builds a solid blue-print for the future.

“This agreement will help us establish a fair and respectful working relationship with the Village of McBride.”