As the union representing thousands of workers in Canada’s aerospace industry, Unifor is hopeful the contract to replace Canada’s patrol aircraft will result in good paying aerospace jobs for Canadians, but is also disappointed with the decision of the federal government to proceed without a public request for tenders.
“Canada’s aerospace industry and its highly-skilled workforce have much to offer, and we will continue to advocate for a comprehensive industrial strategy that builds up this important sector in Quebec and Canada,” said National President Lana Payne.
The federal government needs to replace its current fleet of CP-140 Aurora aircraft. This need led to the creation of the Canadian Multi-Mission Aircraft (CMMA) project, an open bid process that would invite aerospace manufacturers, including those in Canada, to participate. Now, the federal government appears to be heading towards awarding a sole-source contract to buy the Boeing P-8 Poseidon aircraft rather than following plans that would allow Canada's aerospace industry to participate in the project. It's time to send a message to the federal government that Canadian aerospace workers want procurement policies that are fair and support Canada's domestic aerospace industry.
HALIFAX-Unifor Local 2215 members working at IMP Aerospace in Hammonds Plains and Enfield, Nova Scotia, ratified a new collective agreement that sees increases to base wage rates, shift premiums, allowances, and improved paid time off.
“Members at IMP Aerospace were engaged and active throughout this bargaining process and that is vital to winning a better agreement,” said Lana Payne, Unifor National President. “I congratulate the bargaining committee for their hard work and send my respect to every member for their solidarity."
HALIFAX - Unifor Local 2215 members working at IMP Aerospace in Hammonds Plains and Enfield have issued a 72-hour notice that a strike will begin at both locations on Friday, November 10 at 1:00 p.m.
“Our members at IMP Aerospace provide important and skilled work,” said Lana Payne, Unifor National President. “They are looking for an agreement that is reflective of these economic times given the growing cost of living in the region.”
HALIFAX-Unifor members at IMP Aerospace delivered an unprecedented strike mandate of 97.6%, showing their determination to make strong gains in upcoming contract negotiations.
“The members at IMP are sending a clear message with this strike vote that they need to see real improvements,” said Lana Payne, Unifor National President. “The overwhelming support for a strike and support for their bargaining committee is important and shows these workers are ready to fight for a fair contract.”
HALIFAX – Unifor members of Local 2215 at IMP Aerospace have filed for conciliation to set a new pace for contract negotiations.
“This is a vulnerable time for many workers, with the rising cost of living putting extra pressure on every paycheque,” said Lana Payne, Unifor National President. “Local 2215 members are using the tools available to them in the labour relations toolbox in order to get an agreement in a timely manner. They have the total support of their national union.”
Unifor Local 2169 members voted 93% in favour of ratifying a new collective agreement with Boeing on June 17 after three weeks of successful negotiations.
More than 30 workers at Menzies Aviation at Halifax Stanfield International Airport successfully joined Unifor on March 1.
“We welcome these new members to our union. The need for aviation workers to have representation is so important during this period of contract flipping and chaos at Canada’s airports,” said Unifor National President Lana Payne. “Unifor will stand by them through whatever turbulence comes our way in the industry.”
Originally published in The Hill Times on November 28, 2022.
By Lana Payne
Canada’s aerospace sector is in a slow burning crisis. Workers have, out of frustration, issued many calls for proactive measures to help the industry.
Recently, the federal government gave strong signals to Unifor that more support for the industry is on its way. Recognition of the long-standing challenges faced by workers in the sector are indeed much-needed, and support is needed urgently.
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