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After reaching an impasse with Swissport during bargaining for more than 550 “above the wing” workers at Pearson International Airport, Unifor Local 2002 has applied for a federal conciliator to intervene.
“Swissport has proven that they are not motivated to reach a new agreement,” said Jerry Dias, Unifor National President. “But they are mistaken if they think that our members can be disrespected.”
The bargaining committee at Unifor Local 2002 says progress has been made on non-monetary items but the company refuses to make serious wage proposals.
The Swissport Toronto agreement expired on January 30, 2018 and bargaining began in February.
“We are ready, willing and able to bargain but Swissport is not willing to participate,” said Euila Leonard, Unifor Local 2002 President. “We invite Swissport to make monetary proposals that reflect our members’ important contribution to service at Toronto’s largest airport.”
The federal Minister of Labour has 15 days to appoint a Conciliation Officer who will work with the local and Swissport over a 60-day period to facilitate negotiations. The parties may agree to extend the conciliation period if negotiations are progressing. This is followed by a 21-day mediation period after which a legal strike or lockout may occur.
