In the months leading up to our 2009 negotiations, communication and information will be critical. As your Secretary-Treasurer, I have committed to keeping you informed regarding our financial resources.
Fiscal restraint and sound financial investments during this last year have built on an existing strong foundation. As a result, we are well positioned to arm ourselves with the best possible legal and financial expertise when we enter into Collective Agreement negotiations with Air Canada.
Although financial resources are critically important, they are still only one piece of a successful negotiation. Our greatest strength will be in the unity of our Membership. Recent events give clear evidence that Air Canada’s management intends to utilize any means at their disposal to undermine the confidence of the Membership. Staying informed and educated will be our best defense against these divide and conquer tactics.
While the run up to bargaining is an absolute priority for the Component Executive, the day to day business of the Union continues. The Component Trustees have recently visited the Component offices to conduct their review of the Union’s financial affairs for the period of July 2006-June 2007. Once they receive the audited financial statements for this period they will be producing a report that will hopefully give you additional insight into the financial affairs of your Union.
The Component Executive has also recently created a By-law Review Committee to identify any possible areas of improvement. As a member of this Committee, I will be proposing an amendment to the By-laws that would ensure that any potential real estate purchases receive Membership ratification.
I am acutely aware of the trust that has been placed in me as your Secretary-Treasurer. Every effort is being made be made to keep you informed and involved in the financial affairs of your Union.
Please feel free to contact me directly at k.thompson@accomponent.ca with any questions.
In solidarity,
Katherine Thompson
Secretary-Treasurer
Air Canada Component of CUPE