Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) members have voted in favour of their tentative agreement through a nationwide ratification vote from August 23 to September 8.

The bargaining team secured a new agreement that provides fair wage increases, new telework provisions and better working conditions.

The four-year collective agreement covering over 4,000 members in the CFIA bargaining unit will expire on December 31, 2025. 

Highlights of the CFIA agreement: 

• Wage increases of at least 12.6% compounded over four years, and a one-time $2,500 pensionable lump sum payment; 
• Protections for employee rights around remote work arrangements;  
• A clear path forward for CFIA and PSAC to discuss crucial issues associated with contracting out;  
• A thorough joint review of wash-up and prep-time to address longstanding concerns for inspectors in abattoirs; 
• Two days of paid leave and three days of unpaid leave for Indigenous employees to engage in traditional practices;  
• Enhanced vacation leave accruals allowing members to access more vacation sooner; 
• Replaces marriage leave with a one-time five-day paid vacation leave for all members; 
• Ensures safer and more inclusive workplaces. 

Next steps  

PSAC will meet with CFIA representatives soon to sign the new collective agreement. Non-monetary terms will come into effect immediately upon signing.   

Wage increases, adjustments, and allowances must be implemented by the employer within 180 days of the contract being signed. If the CFIA is unable to meet this deadline, there is a lump sum of $200 payable if the outstanding amount is more than $500 owed. Stay tuned for further updates.

Please contact your regional office to ensure sure your contact information is up to date, and join PSAC's mailing list for all the latest news.