Calgary – In workplaces with a healthy balance of power, employers and employees each choose their representatives at the bargaining table when it’s time to negotiate a new contract. But not if WestJet has its way.
According to a job offer recently published, WestJet wants to choose the individuals they will bargain with. “The company wants to do an end run around democracy – and flight attendants’ interests,” says Ricardo Miranda, CUPE National Representative. “And who is supporting WestJet? The Flight Attendant Association Board (FAAB) that pretends to defend employees”.
The company’s plan will keep the scales tipped in the employer’s favour, leaving flight attendants with no collective voice or power. Not only will WestJet negotiate with its own appointees, the company will dictate what is (and is not) on the table. Negotiations will be a sham. With FAAB’s backing WestJet wants to find employees who will rubber stamp a deal that’s bad for flight attendants.
If WestJet’s flight attendants want to decide their future on their own terms, they will be much better off if they formed their own union. “A CUPE membership drive is already under way and we encourage WestJet’s flight attendants to sign because when their local is certified, WestJet will have no choice but to enter into legitimate negotiations with its employees,” says Miranda.
The Canadian Union of Public Employees represents 10,000 flight attendants all across Canada.
For more information:
Philippe Gagnon
CUPE Media Relations
613-894-0146
pgagnon@scfp.ca