The history of the EGD Unit of Unifor Local 975 spans more than nine decades and reflects the strength, resilience, and solidarity of gas workers across Ontario.
Our Roots (1938–1950s)
The story begins in 1938, when Gas Plant workers at Consumers Gas first unionized. Distribution Department workers soon joined them, establishing formal union representation within the company. By 1946, these workers became part of the U.S.-based International Chemical Workers Union (ICWU) as Local 161. Throughout the 1950s, the workforce grew and evolved into four separate Locals, representing Production, Distribution, Clerical, and workers in Niagara and Ottawa.
Building Independence (1954–1979)
In 1954, clerical workers (Local 513) joined Local 161 under the ICWU. A major shift came in 1977, when Local 161 broke away from the U.S. union to form the Independent Gas Workers Union (IGWU). Within two years, additional Locals joined, and Local 161 became Local 001. By 1979, Locals 001 and 513, along with Niagara and Ottawa members, united under a new national union: the National Union of Independent Gas Workers (NUIGW) — created by gas workers, for gas workers.
Joining Canada’s Labour Movement (1982–1994)
In 1982, NUIGW affiliated with the Energy and Chemical Workers Union (ECWU). A decade later, in 1992, the four Locals became part of the newly formed Communications, Energy and Paperworkers Union of Canada (CEP). By 1994, they merged under one Collective Bargaining Agreement, officially forming Local 975, representing all unionized Consumers Gas workers across Ontario.
Adapting to Change (1998–2013)
Corporate restructuring in 1998 led to the sale of the Call Centre and Home Services divisions, creating three Bargaining Units within Local 975:
- Enbridge Gas Distribution
- Accenture
- Direct Energy
In 2013, CEP merged with the Canadian Auto Workers (CAW) to form Unifor, now Canada’s largest private‑sector union.
Today
The Unifor Local 975 EGD Unit proudly represents all unionized Enbridge workers across Ontario. Our legacy — built since 1938 — continues to guide our commitment to fairness, solidarity, and strong representation for every member.