Cape Breton construction workers reach tentative agreement, potentially halting strike

Trades workers are seen on strike outside the Cape Breton University campus on July 8, 2025. (Ryan MacDonald/CTV Atlantic)

Cape Breton trade workers have reached a tentative agreement on a new contract, potentially putting an end to a multi-week strike that paused major projects like a new medical sciences building.

The Nova Scotia Construction Labour Relations Association says it reached the tentative agreement on the four-year contract with the Cape Breton Island Building & Construction Trades Council on Friday.

The agreement includes a 17.95 per cent wage package increase across four years for all affiliated unionized building trades workers in the commercial and industrial sectors.

“The agreement is historic for Cape Breton Island and represents the largest of its kind in the region’s history,” a news release from the Association reads. “In the first year, the hourly wage package for Cape Breton Island journeypersons working on commercial jobs would range from $49.20 to $58.82 per hour, depending on their trade.

“Those working on industrial jobs would see a range from $54.06 to $63.79 per hour depending on their trade.”

The Trades Council, which represents more than 4,000 trades professionals, announced the strike earlier this month, claiming they were seeking better wages and conditions.

The job action put several projects on hold, including the new medical sciences building at Cape Breton University, which is set to open in the fall, and a community health centre in the Northside Business Park.

The Association says construction unions agreed to go back to work on Monday. The tentative agreement still needs to be ratified by all parties.

“This agreement recognizes the critical role tradespeople play in Cape Breton’s economy and positions local tradespeople on a highly competitive wage scale across Atlantic Canada,” said Bob Shepherd, president of the Association, in the release. “At the same time, the agreement helps Cape Breton remain an attractive place for public and private investment.”

-With files from CTV News Atlantic’s Andrea Jerrett and Ryan MacDonald

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