PSAC-UNDE bargaining teams for striking NPF workers will return to the bargaining table next week with the assistance of a mediator, following a busy week of continued escalations and pressure on the employer and federal government to reach a fair contract for our more than 500 members.

NPF bargaining teams from the six striking NPF units in Bagotville, Kingston, Ottawa, Petawawa, Montreal–St-Jean, and Valcartier will meet with the employer beginning February 20.

We’ve made it clear that we expect CFMWS to bring an improved mandate to the table that will provide members with fair wages in line with the core public service, a national wage grid to resolve longstanding issues with inconsistent wages at military bases across the country, and better job security.

Make no mistake, the only reason the CFMWS agreed to this is because of the work NPF members have been doing to increase the political pressure and garner public support.

Last week, PSAC National President Chris Aylward met with Minister of Defence Bill Blair to urge him to intervene on behalf of striking NPF workers. Today, he met with Treasury Board President Anita Anand about key PSAC priorities and took the opportunity to raise the issues at stake in the strike.

Ramping up the pressure

At the Montreal Garrison Tuesday, PSAC Québec held a press conference about NPF workers’ critical demands on fair wages and the abolishment of Order 1982, which excluded all NPF personnel from the Public Service Employment Act. A rally followed with more than 100 workers from Bagotville, Valcartier, and Montreal–St-Jean.

Wednesday morning in Ottawa, over 100 NPF workers from Kingston, Petawawa, and Ottawa gathered near Parliament Hill to picket MPs on their way to caucus meetings. Members handed out flyers and urged elected officials to put pressure on Minister Blair and the employer to come back to the table and negotiate a fair contract.

Support NPF workers on the line 

• Pledge your support to striking NPF workers by sending a message of solidarity and encouraging others to do the same. 
• Add your name to the growing list of people telling the government to do better for striking NPF workers. 
• Show your support with our virtual background, social media profile photo, and printable poster. 
• Check out our picket line locations for information on where you can join workers on the line. 
• Refer to our Frequently Asked Questions for the latest information on the strike.