Media release: Wage theft on the rise in Fort McMurray overburden mining sector

Posted on March 22, 2024

Fort McMurray - Reoccurring complaints of wage theft in Fort McMurray’s overburden mining have led the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 955 to increase focus on the sector in the region to help recover income that rightfully belongs to the workers who make the industry run.

“Imagine someone reaching into your pocket and taking a few bucks from you every hour. You wouldn’t tolerate it. You would do something to stop the theft. For many workers in the overburden mining industry, this is happening in the form of being underpaid for the work they do, and they’re losing money, every single hour,” said Chris Flett, Business Manager, IUOE Local 955.

“With the cost of living through the roof, it’s far past time these workers are valued for the work they do and paid accordingly so they can support themselves and their families. IUOE Local 955 is here to help.”

IUOE Local 955, which is one of the largest trade unions in western Canada, asks overburden mining workers and the public to view the following information closely:

Haul Truck:

Base rate: $38.36/hour

Total package: $47.88 (pension, vacation/holiday, health benefits including vision)

Plus 100% employer contributed pension and health benefits from day one.

Dozer:

Base rate: $40.46/hour

Total package: $50.33 (pension, vacation/holiday, health benefits including vision)

Plus 100% employer contributed pension and health benefits from day one.

Excavator:

Base rate: $42.53/hour

Total package: $52.81 (pension, vacation/holiday, health benefits including vision)

Plus 100% employer contributed pension and health benefits from day one.

Night shift premiums:

$1.20 per hour

$15 per night

$210 per 14-night shift

If you or someone you know in overburden mining is being compensated less than the above rates, please contact: 780-799-8181 immediately.

All calls are 100% confidential. Visit: stopthewagetheft.org to learn more.

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For more information and media requests: [email protected]

 

 

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