September 17, 2012 at 10:37 AM
Vice chairpersons from Montreal and Vancouver Aeroplan offices met in Toronto on September 13, 2012 for an invigorating and inspiring leadership meeting. The group discussed bargaining issues and communication and solidarity strategies for the 2012 negotiations.
"Local 2002 leadership play a fundamental roll in successful bargaining,” said President Jamie Ross. "I am confident that you’ll roll up your sleeves and work tirelessly together to achieve a progressive contract.”
Acknowledging that there is no "one size fits all approach to communications,” the group focused on their similarities and celebrated their diverse and creative approaches to conflict.
"Let’s show the company that we are united,” said bargaining committee representative Jane Winfield "Our strength lies in our solidarity.”
Local 2002 mobilization co-ordinator Sean Smith agreed. "There is a rhythm to bargaining and depending on the political climate; the agenda can change over time. The time to build our strength and unity is now.”
Survey results were discussed at proposal meetings held in Vancouver on the 4 of September and Montreal two days later. Enthusiastic participation in both the surveys and proposal meetings ensured that the needs and concerns of the membership will be accurately represented in the bargaining mandate. In addition, the bargaining committee has scrutinized the application of language in the current collective agreement to ensure that it is relevant to the current and future needs of Aeroplan workers.
National representative Leslie Dias explained in detail the bargaining process and advised that the Notice to Bargain will be issued to the company next week. Following this, bargaining will open officially on October 1, 2012 when the bargaining committee meets with the company to present their proposals.
The committee will continue to engage and inform the membership as the bargaining process unfolds.