Massena, NY – The Great Lakes St. Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation (GLS) has announced the renewal of its Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) with the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) Local 1968. Following cooperative negotiations in the summer of 2024, this new four-year agreement marks a pivotal moment for the Corporation’s labor relations efforts. With a 99 percent lock reliability rate maintained by the dedicated GLS workforce, this new CBA strengthens the stability and success of GLS operations in the U.S. portion of the St. Lawrence Seaway.
Fred Carter, Union President for AFGE Local 1968, remarked, “I want to extend my deepest thanks to both the union and management teams, especially Administrator Adam Tindall-Schlicht and Deputy Administrator Anthony Fisher, for their transparency and commitment during these negotiations. It reflects our shared vision for a safer, more equitable, and satisfying work environment for all GLS employees. I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished and excited to continue building on this foundation.”
GLS Administrator Tindall-Schlicht shared his enthusiasm about the agreement, emphasizing its significance for both employees and the North Country economy. “This new CBA is more than just an agreement – it is a testament to our ongoing commitment to fostering a balanced, collaborative, and thriving work culture at the GLS. It benefits our employees, their families, and the long-term operational success of the Seaway,” he said. “Our workforce is the backbone of Seaway operations, and this agreement underscores the Biden-Harris Administration’s dedication to the safety, development, and well-being of GLS personnel. The CBA establishes a strong foundation for the future success of Seaway employees and their families in the North Country and beyond.”
Key Highlights of the New CBA:
- Employee Development: The agreement emphasizes expanding apprenticeship programs, aligning with President Biden’s March 2024 Executive Order promoting registered apprenticeships across federal agencies. These programs will equip GLS employees with the necessary skills to thrive in their roles.
- Improved Leave Provisions: Lock operations employees will benefit from enhanced leave options, promoting a healthier work-life balance and supporting the well-being of GLS employees’ families.
- Shared Access: The agreement ensures that all GLS work groups benefit from the fair distribution of resources, responsibilities, and opportunities.
- Wage Increases and Safety Investments: The new CBA ensures that GLS wage-grade employees receive a minimum pay raise annually. It also increases allowances for safety-related equipment, reaffirming the GLS’s commitment to a safe work environment.
- Labor-Management Forums (LMFs): LMFs will provide an ongoing strategic platform for collaboration between union members and management. These forums will focus on open dialogue, workplace improvements, safety initiatives, and operational efficiencies throughout the length of the agreement.
(GLS photo of Fred Carter and Adam Tindall-Schlicht)
