CHALK RIVER, ON, July 11, 2025 — Members of the Chalk River Professional Employee Group (CRPEG)—represented by the Professional Institute of the Public Service of Canada (PIPSC)—have voted to ratify their tentative agreement with Canadian Nuclear Laboratories (CNL), bringing their historic labour dispute to a successful conclusion.
The ratification vote concluded today at noon, with CRPEG's 800+ nuclear scientists and engineers voting to accept the agreement that includes hard-fought improvements over CNL's original offers.
"Our members have spoken, and they've chosen to accept an agreement that recognizes their professional value and the critical work they do for Canada," said CRPEG President Jonathan Fitzpatrick. "This victory demonstrates the power of standing together and fighting for what's right."
The ratified agreement includes improvements secured through the union's historic strike action:
- $2 million increase to company-wide benefits program, benefiting all CNL employees (the first in 25 years)
- $1,700 lump sum payment to every CRPEG member
- 10.5% salary increases over three years with improved distribution (4.0% in 2024, 4.0% in 2025, and 2.5% in 2026)
The five-day selective strike marked the first PIPSC strike action in over 30 years and demonstrated the critical importance of CRPEG members' work in ensuring nuclear reactor safety, managing radioactive waste, and conducting nuclear medicine research.
"This agreement shows what's possible when professional workers stand together," said PIPSC President Sean O'Reilly. "Despite facing aggressive tactics from CNL, our members stayed strong and secured gains that benefit not just CRPEG, but all workers at the facility."
CRPEG members will return to their vital work ensuring Canada's nuclear safety and security. Their expertise supports reactor operations, radioactive waste management, environmental remediation, and nuclear medicine research that serves Canadians across the country.
The agreement concludes a dispute that began when the previous collective agreement expired on December 31, 2023, following 18 months of negotiations.
PIPSC's unfair labour practice complaint regarding CNL's cancellation of vacation leave perceived by members as retaliation for opting to exercise their right to strike continues through the Canada Industrial Relations Board.
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For more information: Johanne Fillion, 613-883-4900 (mobile), jfillion@pipsc.ca