Wednesday, November 19, 2025

Garrison Place Employees Vote Overwhelmingly in Favour of New Three-Year Contract

FORT ERIE, ON—Employees at Garrison Place Retirement Home in Fort Erie, Ontario, voted 87 percent in favour of ratifying a new three-year collective agreement providing them with meaningful improvements to wages, benefits, and premiums.

The 50 employees—working in a variety of classifications including personal support workers (PSWs), unregulated care providers (UCPs), registered practical nurses (RPNs), dietary aides, housekeeping staff, receptionists, and recreation aides—are represented by Niagara Healthcare and Service Workers Union, CLAC Local 302. The union has represented the home’s employees since 2009.

The agreement, effective December 1, 2025, to November 30, 2028, features 3.5 percent wage increases in each of the three years, with special adjustments for PSWs and UCPs. Employees will also benefit from enhanced paramedical and vision coverage; increased weekend, afternoon, and night-shift premiums; and a two percent employer-matching retirement contribution.

A new provision ties start rates in the wage grids to Ontario’s minimum wage, ensuring the start rate always remains $0.20 per hour above the legislated minimum.

“This new contract reflects our members’ priorities and recognizes their hard work and dedication,” says Arielle Ross, CLAC representative. “The improvements in wages and benefits provide recognition for the vital care they deliver each day.”

Union bargaining committee members Sherri Thompson, Billie Jo Hearn, and Dawn Roy expressed appreciation for CLAC’s support throughout the process. “With our CLAC representative’s guidance, what we thought would be a difficult process went smoothly,” said Thompson. “We felt supported during negotiations, and our members’ voices were heard. We’re very pleased with the outcome.”

Garrison Place Employees Vote Overwhelmingly in Favour of New Three-Year Contract

You might be interested in