February 15, 2012 at 10:30 PM
CAW Local 2002 members who work as Air Canada in-flight crew schedulers have overwhelmingly voted in favour of a new collective agreement.
The 76 crew schedulers, who are based in Montreal, voted 97 per cent in favour of the new agreement at a meeting today.
The major issue in bargaining was the company's sudden announcement that they wanted to move these jobs to Toronto.
The new agreement ensures about 40 per cent of the jobs remain in Montreal with guaranteed alternate employment with AC in Montreal, with recall rights.
In addition the date for relocation has been moved from March 2014 to March 2016 and voluntary separation packages have been negotiated for those who don't want to relocate.
Wages were increased two per cent in each of the first three years and three per cent in the fourth year, retroactive to May 23, 2011. The deal also includes changes to the pension plan, similar to Air Canada customer service and sales agents. The deal expires May 22, 2015.
CAW President Ken Lewenza said the new agreement is good news for these workers especially after such a tough round of bargaining.
"Our negotiating committee worked very hard to achieve this new agreement and have received overwhelming support from the membership," Lewenza said. "It’s critical to note this agreement was reached between the two sides without any interference from the federal government."
CAW Local 2002 President Jamie Ross said, "it's encouraging to see the high level of membership interest in this round of bargaining. We had 96 per cent of the membership taking part in our ratification vote."
The 76 workers are responsible for flight attendant schedules on aircraft. The CAW is currently negotiating a new contract with a separate group of schedulers for aircraft pilots.