12 June, 2025In a significant win for unionized workers, five local unions representing 2,500 employees across ArcelorMittal’s operations in Northern Quebec have ratified a new five-year collective agreement, last month. The deal, which covers workers at the mine, concentrator, railway, port, pellet plant and office, marks one of the most substantial labour agreements in the region’s recent history, securing major advancements in wages, pensions, working conditions and benefits.
Under the new agreement, workers will see wage increases ranging from 26 to 30 per cent over five years, depending on their classification. For those in the median category, hourly pay will rise from $46 to $51 as of March 2025, reaching $59.14 by March 2029. The highest-paid workers will see their hourly rate increase from $53.78 to $59.60 in 2025, climbing to $68.09 by the end of the contract term. These gains represent a major correction to wage erosion and a strong acknowledgment of the skilled labour that sustains ArcelorMittal’s operations.
The deal also delivers enhanced compensation for night work. The night shift premium, which currently stands at $1.50 per hour, will increase to $2.00 in 2025 and rise again to $2.50 by 2029. These increases acknowledge the challenges and sacrifices associated with working outside standard hours.
Pensions are also significantly improved. The multiplier used to calculate retirement benefits will rise by $10 per month for every year of service across all tenure categories. Workers with less than 15 years of service will see their pension increase from $69.50 to $79.50 per month per year of service. For those with between 15 and 30 years, the amount increases from $71 to $81 and for workers with more than 30 years, from $72 to $82. By 2029, this will result in an additional $300 per month in retirement income for many.
A major breakthrough in occupational health recognition is the introduction of a new annual bonus for workers at the iron ore concentrator and crusher sites. These workers, who are exposed to crystalline silica and must wear protective masks, will now receive a risk premium starting at $1,000 in 2025, which will increase to $4,000 annually by 2028.
The agreement also acknowledges the high cost and isolation of living in Northern Quebec. The Northern allowance for workers residing in Fermont will increase from $1,200 to $1,300 per month. Coupled with several improvements to the group insurance plan, the addition of floating leave days and more statutory holidays, the agreement strengthens both income security and work-life balance.
The total cost of the agreement for ArcelorMittal is estimated at $414 million over five years. Union leaders emphasized that these gains were made possible through strong worker solidarity and unified local leadership across all sites.
“This deal shows what workers can win with strength and solidarity. It’s about more than wages—it’s about respect, safety and a better future for all,”
said Patrick Correa IndustriALL base metals director.
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