In an industry where timelines are tight, margins are narrow and the stakes are high, the ability to maintain stability during bargaining is no small feat.
That’s why the successful completion of the 2025 bargaining period in Ontario’s unionized Industrial, Commercial and Institutional (ICI) construction sector, without a single work stoppage, deserves recognition and applause.
Across the province, 26 Employee/Employer Bargaining Agencies (EBAs) came together in good faith to negotiate new collective agreements. These negotiations weren’t always easy, they rarely are, but they were conducted with professionalism and mutual respect.
This year’s outcome is a testament to our bargaining system and the deep commitment of all parties to supporting Ontario’s construction industry.
The ICI sector is foundational to Ontario’s economy. It builds our schools, hospitals, data centres, industrial facilities and commercial infrastructure. In 2025, billions of dollars in construction activity are scheduled across the province — work that will proceed without interruption thanks to this co-ordinated effort.
This bargaining period reflects the strength of province-wide bargaining, and the strong relation-ships developed between the partners over the years. It’s a credit to both union and employer leaders who brought pragmatic solutions to the table, tackled complex issues constructively and prioritized long-term industry health.
Let’s be clear, the goal is never simply to “avoid a strike/lockout.” The goal is to negotiate agreements that reflect the needs of the worker and the realities of the employer, while continuing to provide the highest quality work to buyers of construction services and meet the demands of a rapidly evolving industry. In that respect, the 2025 round of bargaining achieved more than labour stability; it demonstrated what’s possible when parties work together with professionalism and respect.
As we move forward into a busy construction season, we do so with the confidence that Ontario’s unionized ICI construction sector continues to set the standard for how collaborative labour relations can drive economic progress.
To everyone involved, from negotiators at the table to the skilled tradespeople and employers who rely on these agreements, congratulations on a job well done!
Brian Barron is Chief Executive Officer of the Ontario Construction Secretariat. Send Industry Perspectives Op-Ed comments and column ideas to [email protected].
