The CRC disappointed Unifor 594 membership votes to reject best and final offer

April 29, 2020

The Co-op Refinery Complex (CRC) is disappointed that the Unifor 594 membership has chosen to reject our best and final offer. The offer is fair for both parties and provides wage increases, pension options, and a choice of Savings Plan or Performance Bonus.

“The CRC will be required to make significant changes to support the transition to a low-carbon economy, and to protect our refinery and jobs long-term. Recent developments in our industry have only accelerated those challenges we have been highlighting since the negotiations began with Unifor Local 594,” said Gil Le Dressay, Vice-President, Refinery Operations.

“It is our hope the union membership will soon understand that the only deal that balances their requirements and also achieves long-term certainty for the CRC is our best and final offer.”

The CRC’s highly-skilled management team will continue to operate the refinery as it has for nearly five months

“Members of our management team as well as skilled industry personnel have operated the refinery safely, reliably and efficiently since the dispute began on Dec. 5, 2019, and we’re extremely confident they can continue to do so for an indefinite period of time, if necessary,” said Le Dressay.

“The team currently running the facility has met the Western Canadian fuel demand the entire winter and has filled all inventories to ensure market needs will be met. Notably, I can assure Co-op farm fuel customers that the fuel to support their operations for the 2020 season is available and ready to go. The talented women and men currently operating the refinery are among the best and most experienced in our industry, and they are running our equipment exceptionally well.”

The operation of the refinery under the current circumstances is now deemed business as usual for the CRC. Our team will focus on the continued safety of our people and operation as we work to fuel Western Canada through these trying times.