Glencore seeks provincial mediation after Raglan workers vote for strike action

Nunavik-based Raglan mine, owned by Glencore (LSE: GLEN), has asked Quebec's Ministry of Labour, Employment and Social Solidarity to appoint an independent mediator to facilitate discussions with the mine's union after workers voted in favour of a strike mandate.

Nearly 98% of the 630 workers from the United Steelworkers Union, Local 9449, voted in favour of a strike action, the union said in a press release on May 23. Workers have raised a range of issues including the use of subcontractors for many activities and deteriorating labour relations in the mine.

"It affects the quality of life of workers who spend long periods at the mine site, isolated from their families. Our members want good working conditions, but above all, they also demand respect," said ??ric Savard, the president of the union.

The Raglan mine has been in operation for 25 years and is the largest producer of nickel in Quebec. In 2020, it produced 39,230 tonnes of nickel, 8,988 tonnes of copper and 827 tonnes of cobalt. The operation includes four underground mines called Kikialik, Qakimajurq, Katinniq and Mine 2.

Deception Bayseaport facilities for the Raglan Mine. Credit: Glencore

Faced with an impasse in negotiations, Raglan Mine said that it hopes the appointment of a mediator "will make it possible to quickly reach an agreement that is beneficial and equitable for all its workers to avoid a labour dispute.

The request for a mediator comes after Raglan tabled an offer that would make its employees "among the highest paid in the mining industry," Raglan said.

"We are convinced that by continuing discussions, by listening, by showing consideration and respect, it will be possible to reach an agreement that takes into account employees' demands, as well as the cyclical nature of the price of nickel," said Pierre Barrette, vice-president of Raglan Mine, in a press release on May 26.

A member from the United Steelworkers Union, Local 9449, said that workers would attend the meeting with the mediator and the company.