The labor union representing flight attendants at Air Canada has decided to halt mediation efforts following the rejection of a proposed wage deal by its members earlier this month. The Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) spokesperson stated that the union believes mediation would not lead to satisfactory wage increases for its members and is now pursuing a faster process to secure financial benefits for its members promptly.
Air Canada has agreed to the union’s request, ensuring that flight operations will continue without disruption. The airline referred to a statement on its website confirming CUPE’s request to skip mediation and proceed directly to arbitration regarding the wage component.
Last month, Air Canada passengers experienced significant flight cancellations due to the anticipation of a strike by its 10,000 flight attendants, which ultimately lasted three days. After the intervention of Labour Minister Patty Hajdu and the Canada Industrial Relations Board, workers were ordered to return to work, but union members continued to strike. An initial agreement reached on August 19 was voted down by flight attendants, prompting a return to mediation on the wage issue.
The union asserts that its members, the cabin crew, are not being adequately compensated for their work, especially for time spent on the ground when flights are not operational. On a related note, CUPE’s WestJet division has announced plans to negotiate a new collective agreement for its flight attendants, aiming for improved wages and an end to what they describe as uncompensated work. The current collective agreement is set to expire on December 31.