United Steelworkers' Ontario Atlantic Director Wayne Fraser announced Thursday that the 105 members of Local 8782 have ratified a new, three-year collective agreement with the Nelson Steel metal processing facility owned by Samuel Manu-Tech Inc.

The new agreement boosts wages by $1.75 an hour over three years, bringing the average hourly wage to $26 by the end of the contract period. An improved pension formula means a significant increase to the base rate pension and a $4 bridge improvement for early retirement.

Short-term disability coverage was also increased (to $600 a week), and the long-term disability plan was also improved. Other highlights include life insurance increases, improved bereavement leave, prescription safety glasses, family vision care coverage and shift premiums. The employees' job evaluation system has also been improved and the union also won flexibility on shift-planning.

Samuel Manu-Tech is a successful Canadian company involved in the distribution of metal, plastic and related industrial products.