Flight attendants at Canada's WestJet Airlines have issued a 72-hour strike notice, potentially beginning August 2, due to unresolved disputes over unpaid work and wage rates.
The union representing roughly 4,440 cabin crew members demands compensation from check-in until clock-out.
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Union and Airline Positions
Alia Hussain, president of CUPE 8125 representing WestJet flight attendants, stated the union wants to continue bargaining but called on WestJet to make meaningful progress to avoid a strike.
"Our members don’t want to go on strike, but we are prepared to if necessary," Hussain said. "The biggest sticking point remains unpaid work and wage rates."
WestJet remains engaged in talks, aiming to balance crew improvements with the airline's sustainability. The airline confirmed it is optimistic about reaching a deal, emphasizing active negotiations.
Transport Minister Steven MacKinnon stated that talks are ongoing and supported by federal mediators, expressing hope for a negotiated agreement.
A federal mediator has been appointed, and Labour Minister Patty Hajdu has met with both parties.
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Conservative Labour Critic Kyle Seeback criticized government intervention in labor disputes, urging the federal government to allow collective bargaining to proceed without early interference.
He highlighted unpaid work as the core issue, referencing a similar dispute involving Air Canada flight attendants.
The New Democratic Party (NDP) urged Hajdu to commit to not intervening again by invoking Section 107 of the Labour Code, which was used last year to end the Air Canada flight attendants strike.
NDP members called such government intervention unacceptable and a threat to workers' rights.
Hajdu’s office reiterated its position that the strongest agreements arise from negotiations, stating, "The federal government will always maintain that the strongest deals happen at the table."
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WestJet has allowed passengers with scheduled flights between July 30 and August 4 to make one-time changes or cancellations without fees as uncertainty looms over potential flight disruptions.
