Source: New Brunswick government via CTV News
The New Brunswick Union and the provincial government have officially signed a master agreement. This new deal covers more than 3500 employees across the province and combines 11 separate bargaining units into a single group.
The provincial government states this collective agreement streamlines future negotiations. If you live in Saint John, you interact with these workers regularly. They maintain local highways, enforce laws, and process tests in our laboratories.
What the Deal Includes
The agreement delivers immediate benefits to thousands of public sector workers. Employees receive better access to vacation days and new recognition and retention premiums. They also get a general economic wage increase retroactive to April 1, 2024.
Finance and Treasury Board Minister René Legacy praised the collaborative effort in a recent news release.
“Both sides worked hard to reach this historic deal, and I want to thank them all for working together to make it happen,” Legacy said.
Who is Covered
The master agreement applies to a wide range of essential workers across New Brunswick. The covered professions include:
- Administrative support staff
- Highway supervisors
- Enforcement officers
- Laboratory technologists
- Forest rangers
- Conservation officers
- Inspectors
- Instructors
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a master agreement?
A master agreement is a single collective bargaining contract that covers multiple groups of employees. In this case, it brings 11 different bargaining units under one unified contract.
When do the wage increases take effect?
The general economic increase is retroactive. Workers will receive back pay calculated from April 1, 2024.
How does this impact Saint John residents?
This agreement ensures stability for the public sector workers who provide essential services in Saint John and throughout New Brunswick. It helps retain experienced staff in critical roles like highway supervision and laboratory testing.
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