The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has recently reached a new collective agreement with its employees, which will be in effect from 2020 to 2023.
The new agreement, which was ratified by the Public Service Alliance of Canada (PSAC), includes a wage increase of 6.64% over the next three years, as well as improved parental leave benefits and increased job security for CFIA employees.
In addition to these changes, the new collective agreement also includes several provisions related to workplace safety and mental health, as well as measures to address issues of harassment and discrimination within the agency.
One of the key priorities for the CFIA and PSAC in negotiating this agreement was to address issues related to recruitment and retention of staff, particularly in areas where skill shortages have been identified. To this end, the new agreement includes provisions for targeted recruitment and retention initiatives, as well as increased opportunities for professional development and training.
Another focus of the agreement was on improving work-life balance for CFIA employees. This includes measures such as flexible work arrangements, improved vacation entitlements, and increased support for employee wellbeing.
Overall, the new collective agreement represents a significant step forward in improving working conditions and job security for CFIA employees. It also highlights the importance of prioritizing issues such as workplace safety, mental health, and work-life balance in negotiations between employers and employees.
As the CFIA continues to play a critical role in ensuring the safety and quality of Canada`s food supply, it is important that its employees are supported and valued through fair and equitable collective agreements. The new agreement represents a positive step forward in achieving this goal.