By Alice McFarlane

Union says Viterra-Bunge merger jeopardizes Canadian jobs

Jan 23, 2025 | 5:05 PM

The Grain Services Union (GSU) is joining farmers expressing concern over the Bunge-Viterra merger.

The issues had been highlighted by industry groups, unions and farmers for months, according to GSU General Secretary Steve Torgerson. He said for the federal government to now approve the merger with such limited conditions is troubling for various reasons.

The approval conditions set by the Trudeau government only guarantee the retention of the Viterra head office in Regina for five years. Torgerson said the short-term commitment provided little assurance for members, leaving them facing uncertainty and anxiety about their long-term job security.

“The lack of stronger protections for Canadian jobs is deeply disappointing, especially given the absence of vocal support from our provincial government and federal political leaders to address this concern.” Torgerson said. “I would hope it doesn’t take a lobbyist to convince our provincial leaders of the importance of keeping good-paying jobs in our province—they should not only know it but be fighting relentlessly to protect them.”

Torgerson said GSU was surprised the federal and provincial governments consider it acceptable to sacrifice jobs and farm income in favour of supporting a multinational corporation.

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“It is disappointing that, as part of the approval, the Canadian government only required the Regina head office to remain for five years,” he said. “This merger will create a company likely to last much longer than five years. Yet, by protecting these jobs for only five years, it’s clear how little consideration is given to workers and the communities they call home in these decisions.”

GSU said it will monitor the merger to ensure its members are protected.

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alice.mcfarlane@pattisonmedia.com

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