September 7, 2021 at 12:00 PM
There is no denying that this past year has been particularly difficult as we continue to manoeuvre through the uncertainties of COVID-19. However, we need to remain optimistic that we will come through this pandemic soon. We can rejoice as the aviation sector recovers and our colleagues return to work from layoff. But this has also meant learning of government legislation that push employers to create their own vaccination policies which may impact you.
The recent announcement of mandatory vaccination policies (or "mandates") is unchartered territory for everyone involved; government, employers, unions and workers. The federal government is implementing mandatory vaccinations for federally regulated sectors including the workers and passengers in both the aviation and rail sectors. This means that many Unifor Local 2002 members will be affected and are now having to take part in some difficult discussions.
Your Local 2002 leadership will be there to support members, regardless of their opinions on the issue of mandatory vaccinations (per the members’ respective employer). Unifor’s legal department has advised that the implementation of mandatory vaccination policies is not violating individuals’ human rights. Additionally, the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms is not relevant to this issue as the mandate pertains to private employer(s) policies; the Charter only applies to government action. Mandatory vaccination policies are being rolled out by employers as a safety issue for you, your fellow workers and customers.
If the company you are employed with is implementing mandatory vaccinations with deadlines, members who do not comply with policy deadlines should expect repercussions from the employer. Your union will stand up for each member who cannot (or will not) comply with a mandatory vaccine policy, and the union will advocate for alternative solutions. Unfavourable legal opinion will not prevent us from fighting for each and every member.
We have made it this far together. This mandate is very divisive and we need to continue to support each other and work together to get through the reminder of the pandemic. The only way that we can be successful is to listen to each other and be respectful, even when we have opposing views and opinions.
We are in this together.
In Solidarity,
Tammy Moore
President, Unifor Local 2002
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