As many of us depart for an unexpected pause in our careers, the safety concerns related to COVID-19 remain valid. No matter how many of us are out there, it’s the Union’s commitment to continue to advocate on ALL your behalf. The sad reality is that COVID-19 will likely be part of the new normal when members start getting recalled and we want our workplace to be ready for when that time comes.
It is no secret that the Union was frustrated with the slow rollout of personal protective equipment and changes to service and SOP’s as the pandemic began playing out earlier this year. That being said, recent changes in management seem to have encouraged a more collaborative approach in the go-forward about how the company will address the myriad of concerns and challenges that COVID brings. We are very encouraged by this and hope that it continues.
Unfortunately, the same cannot be said for Transport Canada, the government agency that currently oversees occupational health and safety at Canada’s airlines. We know that their actions/inaction have been a major concern and complaint for many of you. Others may simply have wondered how certain things were being allowed to play out as they did, and what the Union was doing about it. That’s understandable.
As the Union gears up for a national safety campaign focussed on aviation workplace safety in the COVID-19 era, we want to share a letter that was recently sent to the Federal Minister of Transport as well as Minister of Labour.
To date the Union has not received a response.
To view the letter to the Ministers of Transport and Labour click “HERE“.
In solidarity,
Your Air Canada Component of CUPE Health and Safety Committee