First trucking firm to join union
The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) has broken new ground in the transportation sector in Canada by organizing its first trucking firm on Oct. 18.
More than 120 workers employed by Transport Laberge are the newest members of IAM, Local Lodge 869 and IAM, District Lodge 11, according to IAM.
“This was a six-month campaign that initially concentrated on their operations in Montreal,” said Luc Frigon, IAM district lodge 11 business representative. “But once workers at their Quebec City operation heard of our campaign, they also wanted representation and contacted us and we quickly signed cards. We won the organizing vote with a 78-per-cent acceptance”
The members consist of mechanics, drivers, stores personnel and cleaners, said the union.
Transport Leberge transports more than 235,000 automobiles each year between major points in North America for the major automobile manufacturers. They specialize in transporting personal cars from Canada to Florida.
