Members of the Chalk River Professional Employee Group (CRPEG)—represented by the Professional Institute of the Public Service of Canada (PIPSC) – have voted to reject Canadian Nuclear Laboratories’ (CNL) latest settlement offer following a three-day ratification vote that concluded Thursday at noon.
Following the vote results, PIPSC will serve notice to CNL that strike action will continue, with activities resuming Monday morning. The union will implement targeted strike action designed to maximize impact while working toward a fair agreement.
“Our members have spoken clearly through this democratic process,” said CRPEG Group President Jonathan Fitzpatrick. “We respect their decision and will continue working toward an agreement that properly recognizes the professional value of our nuclear scientists and engineers.”
CNL’s rejected proposal included limited changes from previous offers that members found inadequate. While the offer featured a small increase in benefits coverage and removed problematic language regarding direct negotiations with individual members, it did not provide the meaningful economic increases sought by members or substantial improvements to health and dental benefits that have remained unchanged for 25 years.
CRPEG members ensure the safe operation of nuclear reactors and support critical radioactive waste management and environmental remediation projects across Canada. Their expertise in nuclear medicine research impacts the health of countless Canadians.
Negotiations had been ongoing since the collective agreement expired on December 31, 2023. The parties engaged in extensive negotiations over 17 months, including 27 days of bargaining sessions throughout 2024, additional negotiations in February 2025, and multiple conciliation sessions in April and May with the assistance of federal mediators.
PIPSC acknowledges the continued support of the United Steelworkers (USW), whose solidarity has strengthened CRPEG’s position throughout this historic labour dispute.
(Richard Evans)