Montreal Union Workers Win Major Gains in New Contract

New contract improves wages, hours, and stability for union employees

Montreal, QC (14 May 2025) — The General Union is proud to announce the ratification of our second union agreement with the Association of McGill University Support Employees (AMUSE). This marks another milestone in the growing wave of unionization and labour organizing at McGill — a struggle for better working conditions at one of Canada’s premier universities.

The newly ratified agreement includes key improvements in compensation, job stability, and recognition of the value of long-term labour.

In just five months of negotiations, we secured the following gains:

• 7% salary increase

  A substantial and necessary raise in light of inflation, the housing crisis, and surging food prices. The agreement also adds a new paid holiday: the August Civic Holiday.

• Increase from 25 to 30 hours per week

  While an increase in hours may seem counterintuitive, this was a long-standing demand to reflect the actual workload. Previously, squeezing 30 hours of work into 25 led to burnout and suppressed real wages. The change now acknowledges and compensates the true effort required.

• Transition from hourly pay to salaried employment

  This major step stabilizes the position and institutionalizes its importance. The new salary is based on the higher wage rate and expanded hours, offering predictability and dignity in pay.

• Recognition of institutional knowledge

  Before unionization, the position saw high turnover and a loss of experience. The new agreement affirms the value of long-term staff with deep organizational memory — key to a thriving and effective workplace.

These negotiations were a team effort, blending the experience of seasoned union organizers with the energy of first-time bargaining participants.

Interested in organizing your own workplace? Want to gain hands-on experience in labour negotiations? Contact The General Union to learn how we can support your efforts to unionize and win better conditions.

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The General Union (TGU) is a labour union open to workers from all industries and companies across Montréal. Established in 2022, TGU is dedicated to fostering a democratic, innovative, and combative union movement.