Unfair Labor Practices at SNOLAB: Union Calls for Negotiation with Employer

SNOLAB, a research laboratory in Sudbury, Ontario that houses an underground laboratory in Vale’s Creighton Mine, has been met with backlash from its employees. The workers, members of the United Steelworkers union (USW) Local 2020-59, have rejected a substandard contract offer from their employer.

The USW believes that SNOLAB’s refusal to negotiate a fair collective agreement that reflects the current cost of living is unacceptable. Despite their contributions to the lab’s success, workers have been offered wages below current standards and have been asked to make concessions.

SNOLAB received significant public funding in October 2023 with the goal of creating jobs and attracting talented individuals to Canada. However, the current contract negotiations with workers have not reflected this commitment to valuing employees’ knowledge and experience.

The USW is calling on SNOLAB to return to the bargaining table and offer a compensation package that is fair and reflective of the employees’ contributions. The union believes that at this pivotal moment, the employer has the opportunity to show that they value their workers’ dedication and expertise.

For further information, media contacts can be made with Tracy Nguyen, USW Staff Representative, Pascal Boucher, USW Area Co-ordinator or Lorei Leigh De Los Reyes