All 26 SQDC outlets have voted in favour of a conciliator’s recommendation presented to the parties to resolve the conflict. The members of CUPE 5454, which represents SQDC employees, voted at a special general meeting to bring an end to the 18-month strike.
“Our members decided to fight to the hilt to get better working conditions and wages on par with those paid by other Crown Corporations. We set the bar high and cleared it. We’re proud of our success that we owe to the solidarity, combativeness and determination of our members,” said David Clément, president of CUPE 5454.
The wage scale of cannabis advisors was completely reviewed and includes fewer wage steps along with a higher hourly wage for new hires. Starting in 2024, the latter will be paid $21 an hour. For 2025-2026 and 2026-2027, the wage rates will be increased in accordance with the general parameters negotiated by public sector unions. We anticipate that their wages will be between $21.60 and $25.45 an hour.
Other improvements to the contract include reduced precarity for workers due to improved schedules and hour guarantees.
“Our members’ acceptance of the conciliator’s recommendation allows us to emerge from this crisis with our heads held high. These recommendations include an improved wage scale and settlements of all disputes. We now have to sign these new contracts which, once signed, will take effect and remain in force until March 31, 2027,” added CUPE union representative Daniel Morin.