May 11, 2012 at 3:15 PM
Negotiations for a new collective agreement commenced on Monday May 7th in Toronto. The Employer presented the Union with an overview of the Airline Sector as well as their desire to make extensive changes to the language of the collective agreement that they see as limiting their flexibility and competitiveness within the sector.
As part of the employers overview they informed us that they were contemplating business decisions that that may see a restructuring of their heavy maintenance operations. The recent new additions to their fleet and the lease returns of several old CRJs has reduced the heavy maintenance schedule significantly.
The Union made it clear to the employer that they have been very profitable over the past few years and that we must make gains at bargaining table in recognition of the contribution our members have made to their success. The Union has made it clear to the employer that we must be made aware of concrete plans the employer has that will affect the staffing levels and any possible reduction in the number of heavy bases.
Your committee clearly expressed to the employer that we want to complete this process in a timely manner. We want a bargained settlement with no outside influence. We will be returning to the bargaining table May 17 and 18.
We will continue to update you at the conclusion of each round of talks.
In Solidarity,
Jazz Technical Services Bargaining Committee,
John Murawesky, Chairperson
Peter Brown, YYC
Ian Waite, YXU
Kim Choy, YYZ
Benoit Clermont, YUL
Tim Way, YHZ
Larry Arnaud, Tech II
For more information, please contact:
John Murawesky, Bargaining Chairperson