Marine Atlantic and Unifor reach agreement, averting labour disruption

Marine Atlantic and Unifor have reached an agreement on key outstanding issues in their collective bargaining negotiations, avoiding a potential labour disruption.

In a joint update released Tuesday, the two sides said they successfully resolved their bargaining impasse with the assistance of Special Mediator William Kaplan.

The agreement comes after negotiations had reached a deadlock and were under review through the Canada Industrial Relations Board process.

Marine Atlantic and Unifor said the breakthrough was achieved by keeping the interests of bargaining unit members, the travelling public and the communities served by the ferry operator at the forefront of discussions.

The parties noted that work remains to be done and confirmed they will continue negotiations with the assistance of the special mediator when talks resume from July 27 to 31.

As a result of the progress made at the bargaining table, the parties said there will be no labour disruption.