By Adriane Paavo, GSU

[Regina] Grain Services Union members working for Agricore Co-operative Limited in Alberta and Manitoba have rejected the grain company’s contract offer and approved strike action.

In meetings held across the two provinces, bargaining unit members voted 78 per cent in favour of strike action to achieve an acceptable settlement.

"Turnout at the membership meetings was exceptionally high," said GSU President High Wagner. "Employees in each province separately rejected the management offer and authorized strike action."

Results of the vote will be communicated to Agricore management. The union will invite management to return to the bargaining table to conclude a collective agreement that will be acceptable to the employees.

"The company offer was lacking on every major issue, even after months of bargaining," Wagner stated. "From pensions to job postings to maternity leave to wages, Agricore was trying to turn back the clock, and our members said ’no thanks’."

The union members operate grain elevators, agro centres, and elevator maintenance services in Manitoba and grain elevators in Alberta.