Unionization rates

Growth in union membership has not kept up with employee growth

• In 2003, 4.3 million employees were unionized, a 12% increase from 3.8 million in 1997. However, growth in union membership has not kept up with employee growth (+17%)over the period. In 1997, 34% of all employees in Canada were unionized, compared with 32% in 2003. Recent declines in unionization rates have occurred among men, people aged 25 to 54 years, and those working in the private sector.
• Unionization rates are higher in public sector jobs—particularly in educational services, utilities, public administration, and health care and social assistance—as well as in full-time jobs and among employees in larger workplaces. Rates are also higher among those aged 25 years or older, employees with higher education, and those with longer job tenure. These job and worker characteristics are associated with higher earnings, which may partly explain the higher pay reported by unionized employees (collective bargaining provisions would also be a factor). In 2003, the average hourly wage of unionized workers was $21.00, compared with $16.65 for non-unionized workers.
• Unionization rates are above average in Quebec, Newfoundland and Labrador, Manitoba, Saskatchewan and British Columbia, and lowest in Alberta.

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