United Steelworkers (USW) Local 6200 members at the Vale Base Meals refinery in Port Colborne, Ontario, have ratified a significant five-year collective agreement. This contract includes guaranteed wage increases between 20.5% and 25.7%, alongside a $4,000 ratification bonus. A major highlight is the restoration of retiree health-care benefits that were previously lost, now covering employees hired since June 2021. The agreement also introduces pension enhancements, a new health-care spending account, and improvements to various benefits, including vision care and short-term disability. Local 6200 President Wayne Johnson emphasized the importance of solidarity during negotiations, which were conducted simultaneously with USW Local 6500, representing Vale workers in Sudbury. Johnson noted that this unified approach has historically strengthened their bargaining power. Kevon Stewart, Director of USW District 6, praised the agreement as a recognition of the contributions made by union members to Vale's success, highlighting the continued benefits of solidarity between the two unions.