National President Judy Darcy called on CUPE members from across the country to fax their MPs demanding action.
An unbridled, unregulated monopoly is not what is needed in the airline industry. This will lead to price gouging, less service to many communities, and thousands of lost jobs, said Darcy.
One week after CUPE called on the Transport Minister David Collenette to meet with union representatives the minister responded. But his answer wasnt what CUPE flight attendants were looking for.
Minister Collenette finally broke his silence today, and still managed to abdicate his responsibility to Canadians regarding the current crisis in the airline industry, said Darcy.
The Minister expressed his sympathy towards workers and the frustration we are feeling. We dont need sympathy. We need Collenette to assume his responsibilities and call a meeting with stakeholders, starting with front line airline workers.
Collenette says that the process is working. Well its not working for flight attendants or for the travelling public who are facing incredible insecurity. Collenette told reporters that the cabinet would decide what deal is acceptable. Well we think he should ask the people of Canada what is acceptable, concluded Darcy.
CUPE members are urged to contact their MP or Transport Minister David Collenette (fax 613-995-1686; email Collenette.D@parl.gc.ca) demanding action to protect Canadas airline industry today.
A model letter to the Minister is available here. Feel free to adapt it for your own MP. As well, a petition will be circulated through Regional Offices.