Local Area Carpenters Win $9 per Hour Increase in Wages and Benefits

Western Massachusetts carpenters will see significant increases in pay and benefits thanks to a new contract negotiated by their union, Carpenters Local 108. Over the life of the new 4 year contract, negotiated with the Construction Industry Association of Western Massachusetts, carpenters will see their wages and benefits increase by $9 per hour. The workers will also see improved on-the-job perks such as an increase in break times and paid compensation for excessive walking distance to worksites.

Simon James, Local 108's Business Representative, stated "We're very happy with the contract. It goes to show the kind of gains workers can make when they stick together. Credit also needs to go to our contractors who understand the importance of compensating their workers fairly." A portion of the increases will go directly to increase wages while some will go to health, annuity, and pension benefits. The membership will decide how the increases should be allocated.