Scallop fishermen net more money, security at Clearwater Seafood

Bedford, N.S. – September 21, 2018 – UFCW Local 864 members at Clearwater Seafoods, based out of Bedford, Nova Scotia, recently reeled in a new contract that includes pay increases, pension gains, and added stability throughout the year.

The Local 864 Clearwater members are scallop fishermen who work at sea, often for two weeks at a time, harvesting fresh seafood product for markets across Canada and around the world.

While at sea, these hard-working UFCW members make possible every aspect of production, including catching, shucking, flash-freezing, and storing.

The new union contract has a number of achievements, including:  

• 14% wage increase (minimum) over the fiver year term

• Establishment of regular base rate, plus bonus, offering members greater stability throughout the year

• 4% increase to employer’s pension contribution

• Paid time off

• Enhanced bereavement

• Clothing allowance

UFCW 864 members Phil Bennett, Neil Dorey, Dawson Dulong, and Thomas Forward led the way for the Clearwater unit as the union’s bargaining committee, supported by local staff representative Blair Benjamin and EPC President Mark Dobson.