STRIKE
Your Bargaining team met in mediation with the Company May 20-22 after failing to reach a tentative agreement during conciliation in April. The Company did not offer enough on the monetary nor on the extended health benefits to meet the wishes expressed by the members. Therefore on the afternoon of May 22, the President of the Professional Institute of the Public Service of Canada provided the Canadian Nuclear Laboratories 72 hours notice of strike action by the Chalk River Professional Employees Group.
CRPEG Strike Action Recap: May 27–30, 2025
Over the course of four days, CRPEG members came together to demonstrate unity, resilience, and determination in our ongoing fight for fair wages and increased health and dental benefits. Every morning, the picket line grew stronger, bolstered by passionate individuals, supportive allies, and a shared commitment to standing up for our collective rights.
Tuesday, May 27: Hopeful Beginnings
The first day of picketing saw members gather at United Steel Workers (USW) House before setting out at 6:00 AM to begin the demonstration. Special guests, including Matt Vanner (NCR Regional Director) and USW President Scott Molson, joined in solidarity. We thank USW for the generous use of the USW house and parking.
The atmosphere was hopeful and energized with a personal touch including Sonja, a member who crocheted a handmade CRPEG banner and Jacques who played the violin, giving a unique spirit to the march. Positive feedback from drivers —honks and waves of encouragement— reinforced the importance of our presence. The picket captain’s leadership ensured an orderly and impactful demonstration.
While the picket was valuable, many members expressed that they wished it had had a greater impact on the Company, comparing it to the April information picket. Based on this feedback, plans were put in place to increase disruption on Wednesday, focusing on stopping more cars, particularly large trucks entering the site.
Wednesday, May 28: Making an Impact
Attendance grew and the picketers welcomed the addition of one very enthusiastic dog. The goal of the day was clear: more disruption. Rather than allowing 30 cars through before stopping traffic, members reduced this to just 5 at a time, leading to a 45-minute backup on Hwy 17. A dance party on the side of Plant Road helped keep spirits high as the line grew longer, marking the day as a clear success. Many drivers continued to show support, honking and displaying USW/CRPEG signs on their dashboards.
Thursday, May 29: Growing Strength
The morning saw support from PIPSC President Sean O’Reilly through words of encouragement during the morning huddle and walking alongside CRPEG members on the picket line. This was the largest turnout of picketers to date and the uptake in momentum was undeniable. Despite rain and relentless mosquitoes, the engagement remained strong. The umbrellas added to the visual of the picketers. Picketers interviewed and lots of photos were taken and shared on social media. At the peak, traffic stretched over 3 km onto HWY 17. No picketing was planned for Friday, in this first week, as most CNL employees adhere to a 4x10 schedule reducing traffic flow.
Friday, May 30: A Turning Point
Starting Thursday evening, the Company issued a new wave of restrictive policies targeting CRPEG members in work-to-rule, including denying paid leave across sick days, vacation, and bereavement.
Shortly thereafter, CNL sent a new offer of settlement to the bargaining team, which was swiftly followed by a company-wide email urging members to demand a ratification vote.The negotiating team reviewed the revised offer, which was largely unchanged, aside from a small increase in benefits and the removal of direct negotiations with members on smaller office spaces. The bargaining team decided to present the offer to the membership and let the members decide. The bargaining team is not recommending you to accept or reject the offer and is instead letting the members choose.
Strike action, including pickets and work-to-rule, will be paused while preparations for the ratification vote take place. Should the members choose to not accept the Company’s most recent offer, the strike vote would be renewed and strike action would resume.
Strength in Solidarity
Throughout this week of action, CRPEG members have demonstrated unwavering unity. The Company’s response suggests concern about the solidarity we’ve built, a testament to the strength of this movement and your support for the bargaining team. Your engagement is what defines what we can accomplish together and the team will support the direction.
Your bargaining and engagement teams remain committed to transparency and ensuring your voices shape our next steps. We will continue to provide updates as preparations for the ratification vote progress. Thank you to all who joined in the fun of the picket line. Thank you for your incredible dedication—this fight is far from over, and together, we will move forward.