The union representing more than 9,000 Canada Border Services Agency employees announced Tuesday it had reached a tentative agreement with the federal government, averting a strike that could have disrupted trade and caused delays at border crossings and airports across the country.
Members of the Public Service Alliance of Canada (PSAC) and the Customs and Immigration Union (CIU) were on the verge of striking as of last week, but continued working as the two sides engaged in mediation.
“This tentative agreement proves that the best deals are always reached at the negotiated table,” Finance Committee Chair Anita Anand said in a statement. “Border Patrol agents are essential to maintaining safety and security on the border, and this tentative agreement recognizes the importance of their work while remaining reasonable for taxpayers.”
The union is seeking pay for its members on par with other law enforcement agencies across the country, including a “retire at 25” retirement plan. Access to telework and protections from outsourcing services to automated systems, students and other providers were also on PSAC’s list of key issues in the negotiations.
PSAC warned trucking companies, customs brokers and package delivery services last week that a strike could cause “dramatic disruptions to the flow of goods, services and people” at the border.
The ratification vote is expected to take place in the next few days.
Related: Border Patrol Strike Looming
