GreenShield 'disappointed' by Windsor strike — highlights current wages and 'strong' job security
GreenShield said it's "disappointed" by the decision by roughly 600 unionized workers who hit the picket line last Friday "instead of bargaining."
"Some of the claims Unifor representatives have made regarding the bargaining process are inaccurate or lack context," said Mandy Mail, executive vice president of marketing and communication for GreenShield, in an emailed statement.
Unifor Local 240 president Jodi Nesbitt previously told CBC News they're seeking a new three-year contract.
"We haven't even really got to monetary," she said. "It's about job security and [not] contracting out our jobs."
The two sides had been at the bargaining table since mid-January until the contract officially expired last week.
Mail said the company had negotiated in "good faith" for seven weeks and their goal was to achieve a "sustainable outcome."
"Unifor's proposals did not allow for this and would create significant and unsustainable cost increases."
According to Mail, GreenShield's unionized employees currently enjoy above-market wages, "top-tier benefits," quarterly cost-of-living adjustments, a defined benefit pension plan, post-retirement benefits, and strong job security.
Unionized workers at Windsor's GreenShield location have been on the picket line since Mar. 1, 2024. (Meg Roberts/CBC)
Mail said 10 per cent of the roughly 600 unionized jobs in Windsor have been added in the past six months, showing a "tremendous record" as a growing employer in the area.
"GreenShield remains optimistic that a settlement can be reached through constructive and focused discussions.
In the meantime, Mail said they have contingency plans in place to provide essential services for clients.
The Anchor Drive location handles health insurance for local employers such as the City of Windsor, Stellantis, Ford and Caesars Windsor — along with other clients across the country.
The company's departments include client administration and enrolment, claims processing, accounting, IT and a call centre.
