FFAW DEMANDS ANSWERS FROM ST. ANTHONY SEAFOODS FOLLOWING SUDDEN PLANT CLOSURE AMID COLLECTIVE BARGAINING
March 21, 2025
ST. ANTHONY, NL – The Fish, Food and Allied Workers Union (FFAW-Unifor) is raising serious concerns after Royal Greenland’s St. Anthony Seafoods (SAS) production plant was found chained shut with “closed” signs posted on the gate, just 48 hours after the company walked out of collective bargaining talks.
On Tuesday, FFAW-Unifor tabled its first proposal during negotiations in Deer Lake, focusing on key issues such as voluntary overtime and a guaranteed day of rest per week — standard provisions in fish plant contracts across the province. The company refused to present a counteroffer or engage meaningfully, abruptly leaving the session within the first 10 minutes without explanation. Senior Conciliator, Brian Kenny, from the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador was present to witness the incident.
The sudden closure of the St. Anthony plant has left workers distressed and sparked allegations of intimidation and potential violations of the Labour Relations Act. “This is a serious matter,” said FFAW-Unifor President Dwan Street. “Whether this is a permanent closure or a tactical move, it’s an unacceptable attempt to pressure workers and undermine ongoing negotiations. Our members deserve clarity and respect,” Street says.
This move is one on a long list of many unethical practices from the foreign owned company. Royal Greenland has a long and documented history of mistreatment of St. Anthony plant workers and of shirking provincial and national labour regulations.
FFAW-Unifor has formally requested an urgent explanation from Royal Greenland, with a letter sent to Mr. Simon Jarding last night demanding details on the nature, purpose, and duration of the closure, as well as its impact on employees and the bargaining process. The Union is considering further action, including filing a complaint with the Newfoundland and Labrador Labour Relations Board.
“Time and time again, Royal Greenland has shown the people of Newfoundland and Labrador they have no interest in playing by the rules in which they operate. We will not stand by while our members are left in limbo and their rights are disregarded,” Street says. “We are committed to keeping workers informed and will provide updates as this situation unfolds.”