Bulletin
Agreement in principle ratified in majority by SEU 800 members working for The Mount Royal Cemetery company

Here is an overview of the main improvements that will be incorporated into the new collective agreement:

1. Abolition of trial periods for permanent positions
2. Clear job descriptions: We negotiated more precise and detailed job descriptions, enabling each member to know his or her exact responsibilities, thus reducing the grey areas and misunderstandings that were often to the employer’s advantage.
3. Union release and preparation time: Great progress has been made with the addition of 15 employer-paid release days for negotiation preparation, as well as a bank of 40 hours for union release days. These gains strengthen our ability to organize and defend our rights more effectively.
4. Seniority while unemployed: We have also obtained a major gain concerning seniority: from now on, seniority will continue to be counted even during periods of unemployment, thus ensuring that you enjoy all the benefits provided for in your collective agreement in connection with seniority.
5. Improved vacation: You’ll now be able to take 4 consecutive weeks of vacation, giving you more time to unwind and refuel during the summer months.
6. Voluntary work on Sundays: No more obligation to work on Sundays! From now on, Sunday work is optional, according to individual needs and preferences, offering a better work-life balance.
7. Compensation and increases: The collective agreement will be in force for 4 years and will include progressive salary increases:
   1. 6.5% increase in the first year
   2. 3.75% of the second year
   3. 3.5% in the third year
   4. 4.25% in the fourth year These cumulative increases will represent a total gain of 18% over the life of the agreement.
8. Insurance committee: An insurance committee will be set up within the next 6 months, with the aim of examining and proposing improvements to our insurance and provident plans.
9. Severance bonus for employees with at least 15 years’ seniority: all retiring employees with at least 15 years’ seniority, will receive a sum of $4,500 in addition to their RRSP.
10. Signing bonus: To celebrate this agreement, a signing bonus of $700 will be paid to each member by the employer when the collective agreement is signed.

It is with great pride that we extend our warmest congratulations to our negotiating committee on reaching an agreement in principle that is favourable to all our members. After months of hard work, constructive discussions and well-executed pressure tactics, we have achieved significant gains that strengthen your rights and improve your working conditions.

In solidarity,