Canadian Auto Workers, the biggest unions representing Air Canada workers, has stated that now the airline is back in profit, it is time wages were improved.
The CAW is about to start negotiations with unions on new contracts because a collective agreement lapses on February 28. Talks begin on Friday March 31, which is also the expiry date for contracts with four other unions.
“Frankly we’re not big fans of one-time bonuses,” said Leslie Dias, national representative for the airline industry at the CAW, which represents 3,800 Air Canada workers. “Wage increases are what the goal is as at the end of the day. If people get a pay cheque they meet their ongoing needs, not just on a one off.”
“There has been little improvement from a financial point of view since 2002/2003. We expect to see some progress this time around.”