Panel data provided by Madison's Canadian Lumber Reporter.

Talks Today Between Truckers and Canfor's Contractors

By Elaine Macdonald

It's back to the bargaining table today for Canfor's Logging Contractors and agents for the Prince George Trucking Asociation.

As in the talks with Winton Global, the United Steelworkers will be acting on behalf of the trucking association.

Steelworkers negotiator Wade Fisher says while the Winton Global deal will be a valuable tool, there are different issues to be addressed with the Canfor contractors. So while the talks may be similar, they are not likely to be the same. Fisher says like all negotiations, it should be a positive exercise and education for both sides.

Fisher recognizes Canfor is a big company that can put a lot of pressure on its contractors, so does that mean the contractors are between a rock and a hard place? "I think they are" says Fisher.

The Steelworkers negotiator understands there is a concern his union is using the current talks as an effort to get a foothold in the market and unionize the drivers, but he says that is not the case "while having us act as agents for a group is not common, it isn't unheard of" says Fisher "we did this in WIlliams Lake 14 years ago, and our intent here is to work as an agent for these guys." He says this kind of deal is better for both sides as it is more flexible than a collective agreement.

The talks with Canfor's logging contractors start at 3 this afternoon. Tomorrow, the discussions shift to contractors at Lakeland. Fisher is optimistic both rounds will produce acceptable agreements.

Members of the Prince George Trucking Association voted 97 % in favour of strike action if needed, in order to press their demands. The Winton Global deal was reached a week ago. It is a five year deal that gives the drivers improved job security and rate increases.
Previous Story - Next Story



Return to Home