The Union grieved the employer’s failure to pay members for the time they spent to complete the Leading Edge Workbook prior to their ART training. The Union took the position that both the Collective Agreement and the Canada Labour Code required renumeration. The Company took the position that it had been a long-standing practice for Cabin Personnel to complete the workbook without pay and further, that the Union was estopped from requiring payment.
The grievance was scheduled for arbitration on September 17, 2021.
The parties reached an agreement with the assistance of Chief Arbitrator Kaplan. Going forward, Air Canada will pay employees for completion of the Leading Edge Workbook in the same manner as online training is paid (6.04.01.01). This agreement commences with the October Block Month.
Employees should be paid for their work. We are very grateful to members who brought forward this important issue and are pleased it has been addressed.
The Union also raised a concern relating to the Prepare For Take-Off Workbook for SPIN training participants. The Company has confirmed that it is not mandatory for the Cabin Personnel attending SPIN training to review the Prepare For Take-Off Workbook or answer any questions prior to training. This will be communicated in the SPIN Information Guide going forward.
In solidarity,