We have received countless emails today since the announcement of the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy (CEWS) program, which is still subject to Government approval. We are working tirelessly with the Company to work out the finer details of this program and will provide further updates shortly.
We do want to clarify that members will have the option to opt-out of receiving wages through the CEWS program, and apply for the Canadian Emergency Response Benefit (CERB), if they are better served financially through CERB. Members cannot receive both a wage through the CEWS and CERB benefits, but can select one of the options depending on which program offers a better financial benefit.
Under this arrangement members will:
- Be returned onto Air Canada’s payroll
- Receive a maximum of $847 per week
- Receive health care benefit continuation (as per the Collective Agreement)
- Have pension contributions deducted based on all amounts paid and receive pensionable service
- See the stop of employee wage claw back deductions during this period
- See the stop of employee uniform deductions during this period
- Be given the option to receive wages under the CEWS program or to remain on off-duty status without pay, and apply for the CERB
This arrangement will cease on the earlier of June 6, 2020 OR when a member is recalled back to work. Mitigation discussions will continue, as presently the CEWS program is only available until June 5, 2020.
We also want to remind members that per diems and other allowances are not considered income, as they are to reimburse you for an employment cost. This is why they are not taxed or subject to other deductions.
We understand that there are many questions and we are working to provide more details. We appreciate your patience at this time.
In solidarity,
