News Archive - I Am Union

On January 17, 2026, the 163 members of the Howmet Canada unit, IAM Local 712, voted to renew their first collective agreement during a meeting held at the Holiday Inn in Laval. This three-year agreement was approved by 89% of the members present, bringing to a close negotiations that began in September 2025.

The new collective agreement delivers significant improvements to working conditions, including:

A total wage increase of 11.4% over three years, including 5% in the first year (retroactive to January 1, 2026).
Enhancements to wage groups for several classifications.
Introduction of a 40-hour overtime bank.
Accelerated entitlement to an additional week of vacation starting at 12 years of service.
A $750 signing bonus.
Improved premiums and the inclusion of normative language (with premiums) in the collective agreement for trainers.
Conversion to hours and gradual increase of annual personal leave from 3 days to 40 hours (unused leave is paid out each December 31).
Addition of language regarding job postings to the collective agreement.
Improved recall period in the event of layoffs.
Introduction of a statutory holiday calendar for the duration of the agreement.
Implementation of a pilot project offering a 4 x 10-hour work schedule for the evening shift.

Solidarity at the Heart of Success

Supported by District 11 Business Representative Stéphane Paré, the negotiating committee, Mathieu Dubois, José Silva, and Danys Jackmino, held discussions with the employer for nearly four months before reaching a tentative agreement.

“I would like to thank the members of the negotiating committee who actively participated in the discussions and analyses that led to a tentative agreement for the renewal of the first collective agreement. It is thanks to their sustained efforts and perseverance that we were able to achieve the members’ objectives. The gains obtained for the members of the Howmet Canada unit demonstrate the committee’s determination despite the challenges encountered along the way,” stated Stéphane Paré.

According to figures presented by the employer, approximately $1,427,000 was invested in monetary impacts over the term of the agreement. “We acknowledge the employer’s efforts, its willingness to satisfy workers, and to recognize the value of their work,” added Brother Paré.

Support from the Members

The patience and solidarity shown by the members throughout the process were exemplary, giving the negotiating committee full confidence and strong support. Now that the new agreement has been ratified, the workers at Howmet Canada fully recognize the scope of the gains achieved through their solidarity, combined with the strength and expertise of a true union