The Canadian government is stepping in to address the ongoing strike by Air Canada flight attendants, which has caused major disruptions across the country. Jobs Minister Patty Hajdu has invoked Section 107 of the Canada Labour Code, mandating both Air Canada and the Canadian Union of Public Employees (Cupe) to return to negotiations following a strike that began on Saturday morning.
The strike has resulted in the cancellation of around 500 flights per day, affecting approximately 130,000 passengers. Cupe, representing over 10,000 flight attendants, argues that the airline's compensation offers are inadequate, calling them "below inflation" and "below market value." Air Canada, however, claims it previously proposed a 38% increase in total compensation over four years.
As the union mobilizes its members for picketing at major Canadian airports, Air Canada has urged affected travelers not to head to airports unless using alternative airlines. Minister Hajdu emphasized the importance of preserving "stability and supply chains" in light of the disruption caused by the strike.
Cupe argues that the government's intervention undermines their rights, marking a concerning precedent in labor negotiations. Meanwhile, Air Canada continues to cancel flights as the situation unfolds, leaving travelers seeking resolution amidst growing frustrations.
The strike has resulted in the cancellation of around 500 flights per day, affecting approximately 130,000 passengers. Cupe, representing over 10,000 flight attendants, argues that the airline's compensation offers are inadequate, calling them "below inflation" and "below market value." Air Canada, however, claims it previously proposed a 38% increase in total compensation over four years.
As the union mobilizes its members for picketing at major Canadian airports, Air Canada has urged affected travelers not to head to airports unless using alternative airlines. Minister Hajdu emphasized the importance of preserving "stability and supply chains" in light of the disruption caused by the strike.
Cupe argues that the government's intervention undermines their rights, marking a concerning precedent in labor negotiations. Meanwhile, Air Canada continues to cancel flights as the situation unfolds, leaving travelers seeking resolution amidst growing frustrations.
