By David Opinko

Cargill workers in High River to strike on December 6

Nov 25, 2021 | 11:59 AM

HIGH RIVER, AB – Employees at one of Southern Alberta’s largest meat processing facilities might be hitting the picket line soon.

After two days of voting, United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 401 President Thomas Hesse says 98 per cent of Cargill union members voted to reject the company’s latest contract offer.

“Cargill workers have told their employer through another overwhelming vote that they matter and that they deserve something more. We will be communicating the result to Cargill and asking them to return to the bargaining table to respond to our members.”

As talks continue to be unsuccessful, workers are planning to go on strike on December 6 unless a deal can be reached before then.

Hesse remains optimistic that Cargill will bring an acceptable offer before then, thus eliminating the need for a strike.

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UFCW Secretary Treasurer Richelle Stewart is calling for the company to resume negotiations.

“No one ever wants to go on strike, but these workers have been through hell. They want a fair deal and what Cargill has offered does not meet that threshold. Simply put, Cargill needs to do better.”

The plant in High River has had numerous significant COVID-19 outbreaks since the pandemic began. One outbreak lead to three deaths and nearly 950 positive tests.

Details are sparse at this time, but workers have raised concerns over COVID safety protocols, while also wanting better pay and working conditions.

LNN has reached out to UFCW and Cargill for additional comments.