A new three-year contract, described by some sources as "one of the best in Canada," has been agreed upon by New Imperial Mines Ltd. and members of Whitehorse Local 926 of the United Steel Workers of America. It provides for an average across-the-board increase of 48 cents an hour at the mine seven miles south of Whitehorse, and additional holiday and other benefits. It was accepted yesterday at a meeting of the union membership following negotiations last week by union officials, company representatives and Doug Cameron of the federal government's Conciliation Branch.
Union head Harvey Kent told The Star today that the contract was significant in that the company has recognized how the cost of living has risen.
The new contract means that a labourer formerly earning $2.96 an hour will now get $3.25; a tradesman 1st class goes from $4.02 an hour to $4.50; 35-ton truck drivers from $3.36 an hour to $3.99; shovel operators 1st class get a raise of 81 cents to $3.79 an hour; shovel oilers 3rd class from $2.98 to $3.34; crusher operators from $3.31 to $4.06 an hour. There will be a significant increase in the Sunday premium paid for scheduled rotating shifts; from 20 cents to 65 cents an hour.
In addition to the raise in hourly pay, holiday pay been increased from 4 per cent for two years to 8 per cent for 10 years and three weeks holidays. In addition, the company will provide Vancouver or Edmonton air fare or cash amounting to $168 each for an employee and his wife once a year. The holiday transportation allowance will be accumulative for two years.
Other arrangements call for the company to replace worn or broken tools, to supply the hard hats, and to make up the difference in pay for eight hours for an employee on jury or fire fighting duty.
Mr. Kent said that the contract equals the Anvil contract in all respects and in some parts, slightly exceeds it. The agreement is retroactive to January 1.
