TO ALL MEMBERS OF THE IAMAW
WORKING FOR AIR CANADA, TMOS
The next steps
Dear Sisters and Brothers:
The recent ratification and strike vote sent a very clear message to Air Canada.
There should be no misunderstanding regarding the level of anger and frustration that the members of the IAMAW feel towards their employer.
After the results of the vote were released, I contacted the Local Lodge presidents from across the country to arrange a meeting with them and their respective negotiations representatives.
The purpose of this meeting will be to discuss the issues that our members have identified as problematic and to plan for our return to the table.
Last Friday, February 24, a letter was sent to Mr. John Beveridge, Air Canada’s Director of Labour Relations, to inform him that the IAMAW intends to reconvene bargaining with the Company.
The last decade has been especially difficult for all employees of Air Canada. While the cost of living has steadily increased, our members’ pay cheques have not.
The resulting discontent has infiltrated every corner of our lives. We have seen members of different departments and categories in conflict with each other. The frequent misuse of the social media has amplified this discontent by circulating misinformation and speculation about the “truth”. The “truth” isn’t found on a Facebook site. It’s found by attending information/Union meetings and speaking to those who, for the last nine months, attended face-to-face meetings with the employer: your bargaining representatives.
It is important to remember that the Union’s Sisters and Brothers are not the enemy. Point the finger in the right direction. Do not allow yourself to be caught up in what are clearly union-busting tactics.
It’s time to show complete SOLIDARITY and SUPPORT for one another!
In solidarity,
Chuck Atkinson
President and Directing General Chairperson
