The worker union at General Motors has reported a significant majority in favor of approving new contracts with the automaker. The agreements, reached on August 22 between Unifor and GM for over 4,600 autoworkers in Ontario, have been ratified following a weekend vote by union members.

According to a news release from the union on Sunday, the three-year collective agreements include wage increases to $50.20 per hour for full-rate production workers and $62.71 per hour for skilled trades workers. In Oshawa, St. Catharines, and Woodstock, 80.5% of members voted in favor, while Ingersoll saw a 96.5% approval rate.

Negotiations between the union and automaker commenced earlier this month after Unifor’s agreement with Ford. The wage increases with GM mirror the three-percent annual raises agreed upon with Ford. Unifor National President Lana Payne highlighted that these agreements secure over $1 billion in investments for Canadian GM facilities.

GM Canada President and Managing Director, Jack Uppal, expressed satisfaction with the ratification, emphasizing the support for employees, the enhancement of manufacturing operations, and the establishment of a strong foundation for GM’s future in Canada.

Despite challenges, including production halts at the CAMI Assembly Plant in Ingersoll, Unifor affirmed its commitment to advocating for the plant’s operational return. Furthermore, the union announced GM’s designation of CAMI as the primary consideration for Canadian Armed Forces defense work if awarded to GM.

Uppal detailed additional investments in Oshawa and St. Catharines, totaling $144 million and $215 million, respectively, for production enhancements and next-generation projects. Unifor highlighted key elements of the deal, such as a cost-of-living allowance renewal, productivity bonuses, and a December bonus for eligible members.

Trevor Longpre, Unifor’s General Motors bargaining chairperson, emphasized the progress made toward securing stable auto jobs and strengthening Canada’s automotive industry. He reiterated the ongoing efforts to restore production at CAMI and support its workforce during the transitional period.

The agreements come amid a backdrop of trade tensions, with the Canadian auto sector facing challenges due to U.S. tariffs. The fate of Canadian auto plants has become a focal point in the trade negotiations between the U.S. and Canada, with unresolved issues impacting the industry’s future.