UFCW Eastern Provinces Council Local 1252 members working at Grande Meadow Golf Course in Frenchman’s Cove, Newfoundland have ratified a new collective agreement, delivering important gains for workers across the operation.
The new agreement, effective from Jan. 1, 2026, through Dec. 31, 2029, provides steady wage increases, including a total 10 per cent raise for all classifications over the life of the agreement. The agreement also includes an important protection ensuring that if the minimum wage increases at any point during the life of the contract, all classifications will be adjusted by the same amount.
In addition to wage improvements, the clothing allowance increased to $300 for grounds, maintenance, and mechanic employees to support the purchase of work gear, while clubhouse and kitchen staff will receive two sets of scrubs each year.
Vacation entitlements have been strengthened, with employees earning eight per cent after seven years—recognizing long-term dedication to the workplace.
The agreement also improves premiums for specialized work, with the spraying premium increasing throughout the contract and reaching an additional $2 per hour by 2029. Workers will also benefit from the addition of Civic Day (Marystown Day) as a recognized holiday.
Additional language allows for a one-time extension of the probationary period, up to 150 hours with written notice to the Union, helping ensure a fair and transparent process for both employees and the employer.
This new collective agreement represents meaningful progress for Local 1252 members and highlights the power of collective bargaining in achieving better wages, improved benefits, and stronger workplace protections.
A big thank you to the bargaining committee including Crystal Tibbo, left, and member representative Sandra Corbett.
