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Union files for conciliation after impasse in bargaining
OTTAWA, ON – More than a year after Porter Airlines ground staff at the Ottawa International Airport voted in favour of joining the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE), workers still remain without a first collective agreement.
“These members have been subject to horrible working conditions at a minimal wage and with little to no job security. While we have tried to address these issues through the bargaining process with the implementation of a first collective agreement, the employer has been less than cooperative in their demands – we have been left with no choice but to file for conciliation,” says Chantale Grenon-Nyenhuis, CUPE National Representative.
Part of the problem is that the employer has proposed some language to be included in the contract that goes against basic legislation already in place.
“Staff turnover is high and most of these workers don’t know their rights or are afraid to speak up – the employer has taken advantage of this situation to stall the bargaining process and to instil fear in its employees,” added Grenon-Nyenhuis.
Porter’s philosophy is to make travel easier by lightening the load – and apparently dumping it on the shoulders of its staff. Porter prides itself on customer satisfaction but this should not be at the expense of CUPE 5067 workers. These workers deserve respect and have the right to a fair contract.
“With the help of a conciliator, we are hoping that we can come to an agreement without having recourse to any job action. It’s time Porter treat its employees with the respect they deserve and give them a fair and reasonable contract,” concluded Grenon-Nyenhuis.
CUPE 5067 represents Porter Airlines ground staff working as Customer Service Representatives, Lead Customer Service Representatives, Operations Agents, Ramp Attendants and Lead Ramp Attendants at the Ottawa International Airport.
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For more information:
Chantale Grenon-Nyenhuis, CUPE National Representative: (613) 894-4526
Marjorie Savoie, CUPE Communications: (613) 864-9924
