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07 October 2022

Hello everyone, it has been a busy last couple of weeks here is the update,

We had a Umhq 2 weeks ago and discussed the points below,

Hiring and retention two key issues that have affected our acquiring of our newest employees, we suggested hiring rate should be increased and continued support and wfh all things that need to be considered.

We are aware that Aeroplan work that typically belonged in Aeroplan may be being done by the Air Canada Bargaining unit, although to what level we expressed concerns that it belongs with our workers. Examples are Fraud investigations, Ac elite desk and the TRP work (cars and hotels).

We have always pushed for the return of back of the house jobs to be shared between the two offices. We expressed our interests for T-ops in Vancouver  and  that our position was tabled for future expansion to be in the Vancouver office. There was mention that a more shared process of all work will be implemented in the future. At this point until the Company puts it in writing we will continue to highlight your desires for this and push!

The Company had no agenda  items to add.

Most of you are anxious to learn of the WFH program expansion. The bargaining committee is in continued meetings and will be responding closer to the end of the month once an agreement is reached to respect all of your rights and is fare for our members, I will say things are moving along.

The next three weeks I will be in the office next week then the following week at Gidip trustee meetings the week of the 24 jack and I will be back in Toronto hopefully with resolution for the WFH process.

Take Care everyone,

Ross.

Sept 27 2022

Dear members,

On Friday, September 30, Unifor members across Canada will be commemorating the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (Orange Shirt Day) to honour the experiences of former students and survivors of the residential school system and to promote awareness about the residential school system and the harm it had and continues to have on Indigenous communities.

We encourage you to wear orange and join events in your community!

Unifor commissioned Haisla artist Nathan Wilson to create a design for our t-shirt and event materials. Learn more about the artist and the design.

No matter where you are, you can show your solidarity and be an advocate for reconciliation. Wear orange, take a photo, and share online using the hashtags #unifor and #everychildmatters. Send your photos to communications@unifor.org and we'll add them to the national album.

In solidarity,

Lana Payne

National President

08 September, 2022

Hello Everyone,

September is gearing up to be a busy month for us. The new schedule will be built the week of the 12th. and Bid the week of the 19th. watch for the communications from the Company.

We have bargaining meetings and a UMHQ this month we depart for YYZ the 13th. of Sept. and the 19 of Sept. will advise outcomes of these meetings .

A New Class is schedule for September 12 please greet these new employees and welcome them to the team.

So with all the training and business levels we move forward, stay safe, work smart and take care.

Ross.

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16 August, 2022

A quick note,

It appears agents effected by layoff during covid are recieving letters from the company with adjusted service dates that are incorrect. We have escalated this to HR. Please be patient we will get this resolved. I will communicate when we get confirmation of resolve. 

Take Care

Ross

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09 August, 2022

Good Day Everyone,

I hope everyone is well and enjoying this weather we have been experiencing.

A couple of things, The planned August Schedule build/bid has been postponed until September. The Company is planning CCM training coming up for August.

The Company also released an email,updated Q scrubbing  procedures where they are requesting call backs. We are opposed to this as that really is t-ops work should remain in that department. The Company seems to cut your bargaining committee out of the heads up phase with these types of procedural changes. I will be having some conversations around this and will advise.

New class downstairs right now please make these new employees feel at home when you meet them. Good news I'm hearing of another class for September.

Finally take care right now pace your calls do not work faster work smarter, as we are very aware the calls have been dificult. Your well-being always comes first.

Enjoy the rest of the summer.

Ross

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26 July 2022,

Hey Everyone,  Can't believe we are about midway through Summer. The company has published the seniority list as per Article 10.04 of the Air Canada and Unifor Collective Agreement. Any questions feel free to drop by or email us. 

21 jun 2022,

Hello Everyone, hope all is well.

The Company has agreed to remove call recording for now off your total view. We had requested this after finding out it was only added in yvr and they were not using it for anything. The office is quite the mess right now the hope is the roof will be repaired quickly while there is a break from the rain. Also please take time from constant banging noise from the roofers. If you need get up and stretch do so as it is quite unnerving while your trying to work.

Take Care,

Ross

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30 May, 2022

Hello Everyone,

Quick update, New schedule for July being built next week make sure your current surveys are on file. 

We have been advised the new phone system training will be mid august for AE employees. The Company claims for the Canada Day Stat they need all hands on deck, Im not sure why the uber caution we all know it's typically not busy that day, I did question this and was told at AC they always fully staff the stat. They will offer RO if quiet.

I hope your all well as we tranistion to nicer weather, take care

Ross.

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26 April, 2022

Hello Everyone quick update after our UMHQ meeting last week,

These were our issues we raised,

We discussed the countless Payroll Issues that have plagued the membership, The company stated they are aware and admitted they have had higher than normal turn over in the payroll department. We asked for a point person to contact when we discover discreprencies. The Company provided us with a name.

We requested a communication to fully explain the process around reconsilation as this experience was implemented and not fully explained to the membership.

We spoke about work from home and what the processes around system outages were. We also talked about the desire of agents at the call centers and when we would actually bargain language around this piece. No firm committments were made. They seem to want to wait until the complaint Unifor filed on Stats has been decieded.

We asked about hiring. There is one more class coming to YVR this years 15 agents.

We brought up the ongoing request for shift trading between the two offices. The Company said they will take it away again but did state they were concerned about language qualified agents and the affect this may have on the operation.

We brought up the pensions projections for some completely out of whack. We provided examples and asked the Company to review all employees to make sure they were correct . Again have a look remember factor 85 is 2.5 extra years not 5.

A committment was made to meet more regulary for UMHQ.

Take Care Everyone,

Ross.

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April,2022

Hello Everybody, please take a minute to check your pension projections on the HR Connex site. We have currently had a few discreprencies around the factor 85. I have sent an email to HR to followup and report back. If you notice an error please contact them directly and copy union.

Thanks,

Ross

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01 Apr 2022

Unifor Scholarships

Unifor recognizes that the cost associated with post-secondary education is a challenge for many working families.  To assist in making education more accessible, we have established 28 scholarships of $2,000.00 each. Five of these scholarships are administered by the Quebec Council with a separate application form (see www.uniforquebec.org).  Residents of Quebec must apply using that application process.

The scholarships are awarded to children of Unifor members in good standing.  Students must be entering their first year of full-time post-secondary education (university, community college, technological institute, trade school, etc.) in a public Canadian institution.  One of these scholarships will also be available to a Unifor member with at least one year seniority.  These are entrance scholarships only and are not renewable for students entering subsequent years of study. A more detailed description of eligibility criteria and the  application process can be downloaded below.

A selection committee composed of Unifor National Staff and Local Union Discussion Leaders evaluates scholarship applications. The selection committee reviews hundreds of applications annually and considers many factors when evaluating applications including academic achievement, responses to essay questions, and a demonstrated commitment to social justice through extracurricular activities and volunteerism. In addition, the selection committee ensures that scholarship awards are distributed to best reflect the regional, sectoral, and membership diversity of Unifor.

2022 Scholarship Application Important Dates

March 24: Online scholarship application period opens

June 10: Application period closes

July 18: Scholarship recipients announced

Using the Online Application

Your application must be submitted using the online application form NO LATER THAN FRIDAY, JUNE 10, 2022.

Click on the appropriate link below to complete your online application.  Please ensure that you have READ THE INSTRUCTIONS carefully, and have the following documents ready on your device for upload with your application.

1.         Current high school transcript (children of Unifor members only)

2.         Reference letter

3.         Local Union Officer signature form

4.         Essay Answers

PLEASE NOTE:  Any applications missing any of the required documents, will result in an error message and cannot be submitted.  Please ensure you have all documents available before submitting.

2022 Scholarship Application period is OPEN! | Unifor National

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March 28 2020,

Every Second counts!

The Company has recently put out a new incentive program eerily familiar from the AIMIA  years. Please remember these are designed to increase the productivity and eventually raise the bar to unreasonable levels. The Union has always advocated for reasonable targets or company expectations as we are fully aware of the undue stress these raise on your day to day working lives. They offer shine points in an effort to reduce Not Ready, please do not buy into this its a slippery slope, short term gain for long term pain.

Work your speed conducive to your health and remember collectively we will advocate and contribute to a safe stress free work environment.

Take Care 

Ross.

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March  24,2022

Hello everyone please take note for next weeks shift bid check your employee number to see if it is correct on the bid list, It appears everyone's names are in order but employee number may be incorrect.

As well people paying back reconciliation for vacation and sick bank that may have requested time bank over 150.00 per pay, double check to see if your choice was honored as some are discovering the time bank was not actioned.

Take Care,

Ross

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Mar 10 2022

Good News, finally ! The printed Collective agreement copies are available at the the union office. We will do our best to distribute, but if we miss you send a message and we will find a way to get you a copy!

Also more good news the Probation employees once completed OJT! Will have the ability to shift trade.

It looks like the week of March 21st we will be building the next shift run. Please make sure your preferences are current and up to date and are what you want to work. A few agents did have their shifts built last bid but chose something else at the bid board. A reminder out of courtesy for your fellow agents please take what was built for you.

Take Care,

Ross

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March 08 2022,

Its International Women's Day, Let's celebrate Women and continue to strive for Gender Equality , ending Struggles. Ending violence toward Women and Girls. Affordable day Care! And equal Education opportunity's ! Empower  Women and Girls the fabric of our future!

Your union team!!

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Message from Lana Payne Unifor National Secretary

International Women’s Day 2022 is an opportunity for working-class women to celebrate and reflect on our accomplishments as well as gather strength for the fights that lay ahead.

For more than 100 years, women in the labour movement across the globe have marked March 8 by celebrating collective achievements and recommitting to the fight for gender equality.

Although 2022 finds us still solidly in the pandemic, it also marks a year that brings many wins for women in our union to celebrate. Gains like pay equity and child care - that women have been fighting to achieve for decades - have passed into federal legislation and are now within reach for a new generation. These wins cannot be understated and can inspire us all to aim even higher.

A better world is possible!

In every workplace and community across Canada, there remains important work to be done to end racism and violence against women and girls. It will require a determined focus to bring these significant gains to the lives of working-class women.

As the pandemic continues, so does the inequity that has disproportionately impacted women. Women of colour, Indigenous women, queer and trans women, and women living with disabilities have been affected in ways that further deepened the gaps they experience every day. Building back better must be achieved through this lens of inclusion.

Our work together continues to advance equity in all of our workplaces and communities, despite the real pressures women are facing at home and at work.

We continue to prove in the most challenging times that Sisters in Unifor are indeed unstoppable.

This last year has shown Unifor:

• fighting for women in health care at the Respect Us, Protect Us, Pay Us event at Queen’s Park, and provincial and federal lobbying;

• demanding Fair Pay Forever for essential retail and grocery store workers;

• pushing provinces and territories forward on affordable, accessible child care;

• mobilizing around an Anti-Racism Manitoba plan;

• continuing our annual support of women’s shelters across Canada with $158,000 in donations;

• and working every day to support and encourage more women to become active in their Locals and bargaining committees.

In 2022, women need real progress toward gender justice and that means celebrating our historical wins while continuing to fight together toward equality. This year we recognize the work of so many women in our union and our collective determination to deliver significant improvements to our everyday lives.

Together, we are unstoppable.

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Feb 17 2022.

Hello everyone tax time is around the corner all the folks at wfh here's a reminder. If you require your T2200s expense form sent to you. it will need to be requested through the aeronet portal.

Ross.

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Feb 14 2022

Good Morning everyone,

Were back at full speed the Phone has finally been repaired after 7 weeks 10 technicians from Bell, Telus, IBM and Air Canada and at least 15 emails.

Thanks for your patience, The Number is still 604 295 4220.

Take Care,

Ross.

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Jan 24 2002

Hello Everyone,

I just found out late last week that if you need to get your booster the company is offering Code FR from the family responsabilty day, the entire day to get your booster. Please request by advising your TM and they will need some notice to fascilitate these requests. To recap call your TM in advance, request the day off coded FR.

Also if you have contracted covid in the workplace please follow through with the worksafe WCB application.

The shifts look good for tomorrow big shout out to the committee for their excellent efforts.

Take Care,

Ross.

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Jan 11,2022

************* Very Important Message ********

Please Please Please  do not come into the office to work if you have any symptoms or you are feeling ill. We have no defence to slow or stop the spread if you come in with any symptoms and then test positive. Seek out a test ! if you test negative then you can assume it's not this omicron variant. Chances are fairy good you have it and for the  saftey of your fellow colleagues I urge you to please do the right thing and do not show up here without a negative test. I have witness a few agents some with obvious symptoms come to work.

Do your wellness test and get tested. 

We are all in this together and need to look after one another!

Stay Safe 

Ross.

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Office phone should be sorted this week!!!

Dec 27, 2021

Hi Everyone, Please note the Union Office Phone line is down. Please email for issues. Thank you

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Important msg: Covid Variant Omicron ,

Reduce your risks by understanding and following all policies and practices to our workplace. See Aeronet for Policies and practices that may include:

• staying home from work when sick

• practicing hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette in your workplace

• cleaning and disinfecting workstations and other surfaces in your workplace

• wearing a non-medical mask or personal protective equipment as required while at work

• maintaining physical distancing from colleagues, when possible

• participating in home testing

Please use your best judgement if you do not feel ok take the steps to verify if you have covid or not please do not come into the office unchecked. Protect yourself and please protect your fellow colleagues.

Thanks

Your union team!

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December 13, 2021.

Hello Everyone,

A fellow agent has taken the liberty to put out a survey to you the membership. This has not been endorsed by your elected union. The survey appears to be reaching  a targeted audience. I do not recommend your participation or provide personal email as your privacy can not be guaranteed.

Your Bargaining Committee has no updates to provide as there have been no UMHQ meetings or major change from the company to update. 

The Union office remains open in addition the email is accessible to address any concerns. The Pandemic has changed the way we conduct Union business on some fronts (on the side of caution) we hope we can get back to normal A.S.A.P. as I'm sure you do.

Please forward issues either in person, email cawD104@gmail.com or phone us  604 295 4220 well get your message and respond in a timely manner.

We continue to serve you, come by and talk your issue's will be heard. Newer employees pop by were here for you.

Take Care, hope you all find some peace this upcoming holiday season.

Ross and the union team.

**********************************

November 22,2021.

************************** UNIFOR HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE ********************

Hello Everyone,

Please drop in on Dec 7 2021 from 11:30 to 16:30 for a visit. The event will be in the Union Boardroom just down the hall from the union office.

Its been a challenging couple of years for all of us with hope next year will bring some certainty and peace.

We will have samosas and refreshments.

See you there,

Take Care,

Ross.

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November 16, 2021

Hello Everyone The 2022 Calendars are available in the Union Office!

Come by to grab one or email us to arrange.

Take Care,

Ross.

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November 10 2021,

A couple of things, Some concerns around E-Bid for vacations next week. Yes its a new process but it is fairly straight forward. For support the company will have floor walkers on the floor to assist if you encounter problems. Those of you at home if you encounter any problems there will be a phone line set up for help. 604 295 4141. Good luck everyone,

More good news the Company has announced  hiring  for Dec13. 15 in YVR and 18 in YUL.

Take care,

Ross

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November 8 2021,

Hello Everyone, a couple of things I would like to welcome back the last of the effected laid off employees. It has been a long haul good to see almost all of your faces back at the office!

I would to give credit where credit is due! Your shift committee smashed this last schedule, thanks to Linda Ronika and Maria!

Busy days ahead hear some possible hiring is on the horizon.

Finally Please take time to respect Remembrance Day! They Ultimate sacrifice was made by a few so we all could live in this beautiful country!

At 11:00 please respect one minute of silence at you desk simply put your call on hold and stand with your colleagues.

Take Care,

Ross

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October 26, 2021

Urgent**** Shift Update

Hello Everyone, The bid has been postponed until tomorrow Wednesday October 26. Same bid times different day. 

Thanks

Ross.

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October 14, 2021

Good News, As of November 28 the 2 week countdown to get on Gidip will be reduce to a one week waiting period countdown. The change is because the EI countdown was reduce and we are obligated to follow the same rules. It means benefits will be quicker to access.

On Tuesday the 19th of October we will be sitting building the new schedule, and yes the 22 recalls will be bidding it. 

Take Care,

Ross.

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October 12, 2021

Good News the company will be recalling the remaining 22 on layoff. The started calling them already, hoping to have them for the up and coming shift bid.

We continue to hear you about the challenges you face and the fact that the desire has never gone away to have other areas different work to do. I have requested again to have back of the house jobs in Vancouver. The burn out factor alone for some of our folks, it is long overdue. It matters. 

Stay safe,

Ross.

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October 4 2021,

Hello Everyone,

Here is a quick update from our meeting in YYZ.

We met with the AC Bargaining Committee to discuss One Stop Shop and  Work from Home.

We discussed the work load and how at this time it would not benefit either bargaining unit to share work. We talked about what you do daily and how taking on extra work would be stressful at this time. Also it could hurt us if we were to merge at this time. Both sides were in agreement.

We discussed work from home. The company at this time has not brought up their plans for the future. We had discussions around how it may look and language we need to bargain to protect the employees once we move beyond Covid. We also discussed a little about the industry and how other work places administer WFH.

In all some healthy discussions were had, recognizing that both Bargaining Committee's need to share the input once we are faced to address the two issues.

Everything shall remain the same for now,

Stay Safe everyone,

Ross

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Sept 16, 2021.

Hello Everyone,

A couple of things, 

The new stat at the end of the month. The Company is not allowing anyone off so if you are scheduled that day you are working. They will allow you to request the October 11th off.

The Company has Mandated everyone to have their 2 Covid shots by October 31st. If you have a medical condition or a religious reason are the only exceptions they will consider. Other than that you will be placed on a leave, no pay, no passes till April. 

Jackie and I will be traveling to Toronto on the 28 to meet with the AC Bargaining Committee, the topics are work from home and one stop shop the company's desire to have us perform ae and ac calls. We will advise the outcome when we return.

I hope all the recalls are settling in back to the office.

Please take care, 

Ross.

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August 11, 2021

Quick update the covid center folks slated to be back by Sept 4 now.

Thanks

Ross.

Aug 10, 2021

Hello Everyone,

It's nice to see all the recalls filling what were vacant seats in the office. On August 22 we will even have more people returning. Welcome Back!

We will be building a new schedule Aug 29. so stay tuned for an update on exact timelines.

The covid center folks will all be returning September 30, or sooner but as of today its still the 30th of sept.

The call volumes are through the roof, we have repeatedly all summer long advised the company to recall everyone, we will have 30 plus people from both office's on lay off remaining. We will continue to push to have them brought back as we don't perceive much will change around the busy business levels.

Work smart take time to breathe!

Ross

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Jul 6, 2021

Quick update, The recent recalls have been increased to 38 it will mean 15 more for Vancouver.

Take Care

Ross

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Jun 24 2021

Hello Everyone,

The Company has announced another 20 further recalls. It will translate to another 7 back to the office for YVR. They will report back for Aug 08. Business levels continue to pick up and we anticipate more recalls in the coming weeks.

The agents working at the Vaccination Centre will not be overlooked. Your seniority will be in effect as soon the recalls that is within your seniority report to work. For example July 25  some of you would start gaining seniority. You will have to finish your assignment but as soon as this is complete you will come back to the Call Centre. We will  make sure the Company does not overlook you.

Hot week-end pushes 40 degrees in some regions please keep hydrated and find some shade or a body of water to cool off in.

Take Care,

Ross.

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Jun 19, 2021

Jun 19, 2021

To all Unifor 2002 Members: Personnel changes

In mid-April, Air Canada began the process to implement Early Retirement Incentive Packages (ERIP) in order to mitigate layoffs as stipulated in the Group Termination provisions of the Canadian Labour Code. Although this is an Air Canada initiative, the result has had an impact on several Unifor 2002 elected and appointed positions.

LOCAL PRESIDENT

There is a vacancy in the office of the President that will be filled in accordance with the bylaws by posting nominations for the position on July 5, 2021.

See our election page for details.

ASSISTANT TO THE LOCAL PRESIDENT

Ashley Watkins will be retiring on July 31, 2021. The position has been posted and is currently in the interview process.

EMPLOYEE ASSISTANT PROGRAM (EAP) COORDINATOR

Charlotte Pape (Vice President, Central Region) has been appointed to take over the EAP Coordinator position which was left vacant on June 1, 2021.

MOBILIZATION COORDINATOR

Sean Smith will be retiring on July 31, 2021. This position is appointed by the Unifor National President and Lucy Alessio has been selected to take over the position when Sean retires.

AIR CANADA DISTRICT ELECTIONS

More than 350 Unifor Local 2002 members were approved to retire via Early Retirement Incentive Packages. This has triggered vacancies in workplace representative positions that are currently in the process of being filled by the elections process.

See our election page for details.

AIR CANADA WOMEN'S ADVOCATES

Vacancies for Central, Eastern, and Atlantic Women’s Advocates for Air Canada will be posted shortly.

For more information, please contact:

Don Ross - Interim President of Unifor Local 2002

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Jun 15, 2021

Unifor Response to Priority strategies to optimize testing and quarantine at Canada’s borders

June 15, 2021 at 9:58 AM

Introduction

Unifor is pleased to see the government finally begin to engage on plans to re-start travel, but a more fulsome plan is required.

Following the May 28th release of Priority strategies to optimize testing and quarantine at Canada’s borders by Health Canada’s COVID-19 Testing and Screening Expert Advisory Panel (Expert Panel), the government of Canada has carefully floated some ideas to eliminate quarantine time for fully vaccinated, travelling Canadian Citizens and permanent residents.

That small change is a minor step in the right direction but more needs to be done to restart the aviation sector.

Unifor urges government to implement the Expert Panel’s recommendations to safely restart international travel. As vaccination levels increase and provinces implement re-opening plans, the time to plan for the safe restart of travel has come.

Unifor’s Aviation Policy Working Group

In the summer of 2020, after aviation workers had been grounded for months in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic, Unifor struck an Aviation Policy Working Group made up of 12 local union leaders in the aviation sector. The Working Group worked together over the course of the first months of the pandemic to develop Unifor’s National Aviation Recovery Plan.

Unifor represents nearly 17,000 members in the aviation sector. The working group consists of members from every sub-sector in which our members work including pilots, air traffic controllers, flight service specialists, customer service representatives, airport staff, aircraft mechanics and flight attendants.

The plan focused on three areas for recommendations including financial support for the industry in the short-term, a plan to safely facilitate passenger flights across international borders and developing and implementing a long-term vision for the industry that includes social, financial and environmental sustainability.

 Aviation Working Group Response to Expert Panel’s Report

Unifor’s Aviation Policy Working Group recommends the priority strategies to optimize testing and quarantine at Canada’s borders be used as a road map to facilitate safe travel for travellers and a safe return to work for the thousands of people in the aviation sector who remain laid-off due to COVID-19 related travel restrictions.

Addressing the panel’s recommendations

The working group supports the priority strategies laid out by the Expert Panel and specifically highlights the following recommendations:

• Eliminate the requirement that travellers arriving by air quarantine in a government- authorized accommodation;

• Introduce quarantine exit on day 7 of quarantine with a negative PCR test;

• Increase follow-up and monitoring of quarantining travellers to ensure compliance;

• Equalize border measures between the land border and air border in order to eliminate loopholes that drive people to American airports instead of Canadian airports; and

• Eliminate departure testing and quarantine requirements for fully vaccinated travellers.

• Unifor began a discussion with the Minister of Health in the summer of 2020 to promote a move to dynamic quarantine and quarantine exit upon negative test. This group is pleased to see the Expert Panel recommend this action.

• The working group is also pleased to see the expert panel continue to take COVID-19 very seriously. The recommendations included in this report serve to improve safety by incorporating new scientific understanding of the virus and the technology used prevent and detect it. Furthermore, while the panel recommends removing the mandatory hotel quarantine for air travellers, this is done to improve compliance or the likelihood that travellers will abide by quarantine rules for the full days of requirement. The working group also appreciates the recommendation to increase monitoring of quarantined travellers to ensure compliance.

Addressing additional considerations

The working group recognizes that in the short-term it may be necessary to implement differentiated rules and requirements for groups of people based on vaccination status. This should be considered a short-term strategy.

Various efforts to establish proof-of-vaccination certificates are underway in several jurisdictions and within industries. It is imperative that all levels of government in Canada work together to establish a framework and clear guidelines that support a seamless and consistent application of certificates that best coordinates a beneficial restart to the Canadian economy.

Further, the working group urges government officials to resolve the valid concerns laid out in the March 2021 Chief Science Advisor’s report regarding vaccine certifications. Any program to implement proof-of-vaccination certificates must consider equity, the appropriateness of application among vulnerable populations, personal privacy and data protection as well as human rights that may be incompatible with certain forms of vaccine certification. Government must ensure the short-term need for proof-of-vaccination does not result in overreach by government agencies in gaining access to the personal lives of travellers. These are of utmost importance in ensuring proof-of-vaccination certificates are respected and effective.

One more item for consideration is the treatment of children aged 6-11 in the testing and quarantine process. Currently, children under 5 are exempt from testing requirements. People twelve and over are eligible for the vaccine and will be subject to rules based on proof of vaccination. However, there is no guidance that we could find on the testing and quarantine rules for children aged 6-12 who are not exempt from testing and also not eligible for a vaccine. Government must clarify this for families with children.

The time to act is now!

Scientists and health care professionals will continue to build on the current knowledge over time. The working group encourages government to continue to monitor new information and update plans accordingly – but that should not be an excuse to wait.

Given the release of the panel report, the ongoing expansion of vaccinations across Canada and the release of provincial restart plans, the federal government must now push ahead with a safe plan for international travel and a further recovery plan for the aviation industry.

Beyond COVID-19 – a vision for the future

The working group developed Unifor’s National Recovery Plan for the Aviation sector in the fall of 2020. Unifor, this working group and our local unions have been advocating for this plan for many months. The plan includes recommendations to safely re-open borders, to give travellers and airlines more certainty around once again increasing capacity.

It also contains a vision for the future that includes decent work; robust health and safety standards and a thriving industry for passengers and workers. Unifor members have been through air transportation crises before. In the past, air transportation industry employees have been required to bare the brunt of the destruction, while executives and shareholders recover quickly. This time around, the pattern must be different, ensuring that thriving employees and satisfied travellers are recognized as important components of successful industry – in the short-term and the long-term.

Conclusion

Unifor’s Aviation Policy Working Group, the Aviation Council and the Unifor Pilots Association of Canada have been advocating for the industry throughout the pandemic, putting forward recommendations necessary to ensure people are protected through the pandemic and the industry is ready for take-off as soon as restrictions are lifted.

The Expert Panel’s report highlighting priority strategies for testing and quarantine at Canada’s borders should be regarded as a roadmap to facilitate safe travel and a return to work for aviation and travel and tourism workers across the country. Government should implement these recommendations without delay; half measures should not be an option.

Jun 07 2021

Aeroplan D104: Notice of Election - Health and Safety Representative

June 7, 2021 at 8:15 AM

TO: Local 2002 members - Aeroplan District 104

FROM: Unifor 2002 elections committee

SUBJECT: Election for the following position: 1 Health & Safety Representative

NOTICE OF WRIT OF ELECTION

This notice is to advise all members of Unifor Local 2002 that, in accordance with the Bylaws of Unifor Local 2002, an election will take place for the above-mentioned position.

Vacancies filled during the term of office shall not exceed the original three (3) year term ending October 31, 2023 (Bylaws, Article 4.1.08).

Any member in good standing may run for election for the position by submitting a completed nomination form to the Unifor Local 2002 office via:  Fax: (905) 678-0100 or 1-866-635-5956, Email: admin2@unifor2002.org

Nominations and signed Code of Conduct must be received no later than NOON Eastern time on 21 June 2021.

Nominees MUST confirm that the nomination was received by calling the Local’s office:  (905) 678-1551 or 1-888-226-8885.

All candidates shall be able to withdraw their nomination no later than NOON Eastern time on 25 June 2021.

Nominations and statements of qualifications will only be accepted between:  NOON Eastern time on 7 June 2021 and NOON Eastern time on 21 June 2021.

Please click here for the Election file.

June 07, 2021

Hello Everyone,

After announcing that the mitigation would not produce any recalls, the Company has approved 36 recalls at Aeroplan. 31 active and 5 on disability. This will happen in July and more details to follow. We had entered into discussions around this and the Uptick in call levels are factors. 

We will keep our eyes on the business levels and raise this issue when ever the possibility presents it self.

Goods news, keep safe,

Ross

******************************************************************************************************************************

May 31,2021

Quick update, 

Most of you have heard already 16 from Vancouver are retiring this summer, 35 from both offices. We were hoping this would propel some recalls. We were on a call last week and were told the Company is still declaring a surplus at Aeroplan at this time. We do expect business levels to start picking up as Covid levels decline and Vaccinations increase as well as border rules loosen. All parties are watching this closely.

We wanted to have a send off party for our friends that have chosen to retire and will most likely plan something when Covid rules permit! so please stay tuned!

Things are starting to improve so our new normal isn't to far away,

Please take care,

Ross.

*************************************************************************************************************************************

MAY 21, 2021

Air Canada / Aeroplan: Early Retirement Incentive Plan numbers

Unifor has been provided the number of Early Retirement Incentive Plan (ERIP) applications from Air

Canada. All applications have been approved. Your Unifor bargaining committees are sharing the

numbers with you. Please see below:

AIR CANADA CSSA GROUP

• Vancouver Airport – 46

• Calgary Airport – 18

• Calgary Customer Relations – 2

• Edmonton Airport – 3

• Winnipeg Airport – 16

• Toronto Airport – 108

• Toronto Contact Centre – 20

• Toronto Customer Journey Management – 7

• Ottawa Airport – 14

• Montreal Airport – 61

• Montreal Customer Relations – 1

• Montreal Contact Centre – 12

• Saint John Res – 3

• Halifax Airport – 8

• St. John's Airport – 4

Total: 323

AIR CANADA IN-FLIGHT CREW SCHEDULING

• Montreal – 10

Total: 10

AEROPLAN

• Vancouver – 16

• Montreal – 19

Total: 35

Your Unifor Bargaining Committees,

Air Canada and Aeroplan

 May 17, 2021

Unifor marks the 2021 International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia (IDAHOT) with solidarity for people of all sexual and gender minorities.

Unifor remains resolved to continue the fight against homophobia and transphobia through social change and the fight for human rights for all.

As we resurface from the pandemic and begin to build a better world, we must do away with the inequalities and oppression that lead to discrimination.

Unifor calls upon governments of all levels to recognise LGBTQ workers in recovery efforts and for the federal government to finally pass legislation to adopt a ban on so-called 'conversion therapy'.

Conversation therapy is a dangerous, unfounded practice that often involves minors' abuse and leads to lifetime trauma. The basic assumption that a person's sexual orientation, gender identity or expression is something to be altered or corrected, threatens LGBTQ workers' dignity and well being. This runs against the union's position on supporting the rights of all workers.

Unifor is opposed to conversion therapy in all forms and supports efforts to put a stop to the practice through municipal, provincial, and federal bans.

The International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia and Pride will look different this year. Many local unions are organizing online events to unite community after an isolating year.

Email pride@unifor.org with information about Local Union events, to have your events added to a Pride 2021 Calendar.

This year for IDAHOT, Unifor encourages local unions, committees and members to create original digital posts, memes, and videos to counter homophobia and transphobia and to share positive stories from queer and trans members.

Post these stories online to share with your members, and use the hashtag #UniforPride.

Download the shareable.

Download the poster.

Read this statement online

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May 11,2021

FYI,  A number of you have not been back to the office since the WFH started. I just wanted to ensure you knew we have moved. The Union office is now 2 doors over, just slightly down the hall. Some of you may remember the Aimia mail room. The tel number still 604 295 4220, email still cawd104@gmail.com. 

We are keeping the office manned Monday through Friday, unless circumstances are not possible.

Take Care,

Ross.

***************************************************************************************************************************************

May 4 2021,

Dear members,

We have entered the final critical push to get paid sick leave in B.C.—during the pandemic and permanently.

The government is under tremendous pressure to introduce something, and we understand that they might be in the late stages of deciding on the exact format paid sick leave will take.

There is a serious risk the government will cave to aggressive employers and be too timid. But if COVID-19 has taught us anything, timid government policies don't work.

Paid sick leave in B.C. must be bold and follow the following parameters:

• 7 permanent paid sick days;

• 14 additional paid sick days during a pandemic or related public health emergency;

• Universality (i.e. it applies to all workers, regardless of status);

• Sick notes not required;

• Flexible (i.e. not just for short-term illness; more akin to "personal emergency" days);

• Employer-paid;

• No administrative burden.

The BC NDP government knows this and knows what workers deserve, but pressure from business groups could block a fair paid sick leave policy.

Our voice must be louder.

There are two critical actions we’re asking all Unifor members in B.C. to do this week:

1. Click here to take action now: email or call your MLA and tell them you demand employer-paid sick days for all British Columbians

2. Register for one of two Zoom call meeting to “zap” call key MLAs in B.C. In this virtual action, together we call the offices of key MLAs and ministers. This fun action will take no longer than 30 minutes.

   • Wednesday, May 5 at 5 p.m. Pacific Time: https://unifor.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJAvcO6hqTkvG9Unlo6CQ32JPXKH1lFl2UhK

   • Thursday, May 6 at 5 p.m. Pacific Time: https://unifor.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJUuc-utrjsuE9bQ5-ISagW6IhfTYDNZxKLt

We're so close to getting real protection for sick workers. Please do what you can this week and share this page widely.

In solidarity,

Gavin McGarrigle

Western Regional Director

**************************************************************************************************************************************

Message from Unifor President Jerry Dias,                                                                                                                   April 27 2021

Dear members,

April 28 is the Day of Mourning for workers killed on the job or from occupation-related illness. Every worker death is a tragedy, and this year workers across Canada are struggling with the new threat of a pandemic.

Not only has the pandemic added to the risks at work for many Canadians, it has caused untold suffering as many more workers and their family became sick, lost their jobs or have had to work under extremely trying conditions.

As well, the pandemic has left many in isolation, often struggling with mental health issues, and prevented all of us from gathering in solidarity and support on such important days.

According to the Association of Workers' Compensation Boards of Canada, 925 workers died on the job or were killed by occupational disease in 2019, the last year for which statistics are available, and there were 271,806 lost time claims.

At Unifor in the past year, 19 members have died on the job, including five with COVID-19. Four members of FFAW-Unifor were killed in just one day.

Please read and share Unifor’s statement on the Day of Mourning, and make plans to join your Unifor brothers and sisters on April 28 as we gather online to remember our lost members.

• When: April 28, 7pm ET

• Where: Click here to register.

• Who: Speakers will include Unifor Secretary-Treasurer Lana Payne, Western Regional Director Gavin McGarrigle, Ontario Regional Director Naureen Rizvi, Atlantic Regional Director Linda MacNeil, Assistant to the National President Joie Warnock, Director Health, Safety and Environment Sari Sairanen.

• What: There will be a moment of silence for the lost members, including a video tribute to lost members, and a call to action

Please mark this time and date in your calendars and make plans to attend by registering beforehand.

Download the Day of Mourning Zoom background here.

Download the Day of Mourning Shareable here.

In solidarity,

Jerry Dias

National President

April 15 2021,

Unifor 2002 | e-news / e-nouvelle

View in your browser / Afficher dans votre navigateur

Le message en français suit le texte en anglais

April 15, 2021

Aeroplan Update: Pension Incentive Program

Our union has been engaged in discussions with Air Canada under the joint planning committee process as stipulated in the Group Termination provisions of the Canadian Labour Code.   While Aeroplan was not part of these discussions because this process had not been triggered as of yet due to the timing of the layoffs.  Air Canada has agreed to extend the following retirement incentive to Aeroplan:

Added Pension Benefit up to age 65: Members who as of August 1st, 2021 at the latest, are eligible to receive an unreduced pension (members who are at least age 55 and have 80 points) who apply for a temporary pension benefit before May 14th, 2021, and who retire between June 1st and August 1st, 2021 will receive an annual pension benefit of $400 per year of allowable service accumulated in the pension plan in addition to the pension benefit they are otherwise entitled to receive, to a cap of a maximum of $14000 until age 65.

For Example, A member that is age 55 with 30 years of allowable service will be entitled to 30 x $400.00 = $12,000 per year in addition to their monthly pension until they reach age 65.

This program will be paid for through the surplus of the pension plan which currently sits at a solvency surplus of 111% or $3 billion. Air Canada reserves the right to limit the number of applications for each program.

Members will maintain all previously granted and unused C1/J passes (Thank You, Appreciation, Holiday, and Unique events) which have not expired. They must however be used within 2 years of retirement date (IE: 01 March 2023). Unused Reunion passes are also able to be carried into retirement but must be used no later than December 31st, 2022.

Members who opt for one of the programs will also be granted a one-time “Mitigation Retirement Pass” valid for the retired employee and one companion of choice. The Mitigation passes have a priority of PJ5/J00, must be booked 21 days in advance, and are subject to availability. These passes must also be used by December 31st, 2022.

Further details will be released by the company.  The application deadline will be May 14, 2021.  The company will provide a calculator to assist members in determining if they qualify and how much they will be entitled to. 

Unifor Local 2002 will continue to keep the membership apprised of any further developments. Please stay tuned for further updates and subscribe to e-news at www.unifor2002.org 

In solidarity,

Your Aeroplan Bargaining Committee

Ross McConkey, Bargaining Committee Representative

Jacky Lui, Bargaining Committee Representative

Vince De Sua, Bargaining Committee Representative

Stephen Lussier, Bargaining Committee Representative

Josée Genois, Assistant to Local 2002 President

Leslie Dias, Unifor Director – Airlines Sector

April 5 2021,

Hello Everyone,

I hope you all had a good Easter, hard to believe we are still in the grasp of this pandemic. It will take a turn hopefully in the next few weeks once these vaccines take hold. I want to thank the group of our employees that accepted the work offered at the vaccination center in Coquitlam. They truly stepped out of their comfort zones to assist that essential undertaking, a huge thanks is warranted! 

I wanted to advise that two of our valued friends will be retiring around the month of June, Rose Hunter and Carmen Schmidt. I know a lot of you working from home may not get this kind of info.

Please continue to reach out if you have any issues, we are here open for business to assist you.

Take Care and please take extra caution during the next few weeks,

Ross.

*****************************************************************************************************************************

March 18 ,2021

Hello Everyone, I will be on Vacay the week of the 22 March.

The office will be closed March 22, 23 due to no coverage. Please email your concerns, will monitor. Cawd104@gmail.com

The office will be open March 24-25-26.

Take care

Ross

************************************************************************************************************************

March 17,2021

Workers mark the one-year anniversary of federal inaction on aviation

One year has passed since government-levied travel bans, but despite growing aviation sector job losses, there has been no action to bolster Canada’s struggling aviation industry.

"Governments around the world acted swiftly to support their aviation sector. The Government of Canada disturbingly stands alone when it comes to turning its back on aviation workers," said Jerry Dias, Unifor National President. "Canada can't have a safe economic recovery without a healthy aviation sector."

Unifor is part of an industry-wide coalition that has been sounding the alarm about the aviation sector's dire state for nearly a year. The union published a detailed policy paper filled with science-based, practical and far-reaching proposals to get the industry back on its feet and aviation workers safely back to work.

At today’s news conference, streamed on Facebook, Dias was joined by several Unifor local union presidents representing aviation workers to renew the call for a national recovery plan. The leaders say the plan must ensure services are preserved and remote locations do not lose service or the vital connections to medicine, business, family, and friends.

"We've worked with employers and experts to present sensible options for the government," said Dias. "One year of inaction is a shameful anniversary. What is the federal government waiting for?"

Unifor also recommends a national recovery plan include adapting border restrictions to safely reopen borders in line with the International Civil Aviation Organization's Universal Standard to implement rapid testing and dynamic quarantine.

Unifor is Canada’s largest union in the private sector, representing 315,000 workers in every major area of the economy. The union advocates for all working people and their rights, fights for equality and social justice in Canada and abroad, and strives to create progressive change for a better future.

March 09,2021

MARCH 8, 2021

Let's Save Canadian Aviation

Dear Unifor member,

Following a long and arduous year of Unifor submitting reports, letters, submissions, and presentations to the Federal government, advocating for a National Aviation Recovery Plan, Jerry Dias – Unifor National President announced on March 4, 2021, that progress is finally being made.

To solidify these efforts, we are asking each one of you to send the attached letter of support for Canadian Aviation to your Member of Parliament (MP). This process is easy and will only take a minute to complete.

Air travel is essential to Canada's economic growth and prosperity. The Federal government has emphasized the need to have a viable aviation sector in order to kick-start the Canadian economy. However, we have only been provided with words and no action has been taken thus far. Your action is required to keep our issues at the forefront of the recovery agenda. Please take the time to complete this important task.

Click here to send a letter of support to your Member of Parliament.

******************************************************************************************************************************

March 08,2021

Message from Erin,

Happy International Women's Day! 

Today we celebrate all the achievements and gains women have made. However it is an ongoing struggle for many. The pandemic has provided another challenge for women in the world. Existing inequality and inequities as well as gender based violence have seen an increase in the past year. Recognizing the contribution of women is more important than ever this year to bring awareness to the continuing challenges women face.

I hope everyone is keeping well and staying safe. I look forward to when we can all see each other again. 

Your Women's Advocate,

Erin Draper

********************************************************************************************************************************************************************

Feb 25 2021,

 Hello everyone,

A quick update for you,

The company has provided some tentative dates, this could be revised but its looking like!

The shift committee will sit the week of March 7.

The bid will take place March 16.

The new schedule will be in effect on April 4.

The agents that chose to work one shift less the company will have you bid a full shift and adjust by one day less. How they determine what day still to be communicated.

To all our colleagues that will and have been placed on Lay off,  please take care we will see you back at some point in the up and coming months.

Stay safe ,

Ross.

***********************************************************************************************************************************

Feb 12 2021

Hi All,

An update,

We have been advised by the company that they have revised the Surplus and they decided that the numbers will be less than their original forecast for this second round 

• YVR 19 FT / 3 PT 

• YUL 33FT / 3 PT  

Totalling Now 58

The company will likely begin to contact the affected members today to provide them with the details of timelines...

We will continue to keep you posted as we get updates.....

Applying for employment insurance: a how-to guide for Unifor members Click Here

Stay Safe,

Ross and Jacky

**************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************

February 10, 2021

Aeroplan Members: Here we go Again – More Layoffs

Your Aeroplan Bargaining Committee has been advised that due to the incredibly low volumes in calls, and work in general, there is a surplus within every unit at Air Canada and Aeroplan. We are not immune from this unprecedented crisis which is affecting all of us with a record level of job cuts.

This is extremely concerning to all of us as the layoffs are very deep and are affecting Aeroplan members with 23 years of service. With the government protocols continually changing Air Canada has been compelled to adjust accordingly, and thus our members are on the front-line of these changes. The latest layoff numbers that we have been presented are Vancouver 26 full-time and 5 part-time, Montreal 35 full-time, and 6 part-time. This is for a total of 72 agents in inverse seniority for both Aeroplan offices-Vancouver and Montreal. The total of 72 agents is in addition to the 110 layoffs that were previously announced a few weeks ago.

We do not have any details on when the Company will inform the agents of the pending layoffs, it is important to note; the company is required to give a 21-day notice to our members before layoffs can take place. The company clearly stated that the first round of layoffs is temporary and is maintaining this position for the second round of layoffs. Your Bargaining Committee did ask the Company to clarify what "temporary" means in this respect but they were unable to provide us with a definitive answer.

We can only hope that is the case, but Covid needs to be under control, vaccines need to be administered nationwide, and government measures cannot continue to be so restrictive and punitive, otherwise, the length of time for these layoffs will continue to be extended with no end sight for the near future.

Please note, your Bargaining Committee is challenging the Company on several fronts. We have made many arguments that the company is not following the Aeroplan Collective Bargaining Agreement, specifically LOU 18 language, as well as some sections of the Canadian Labour Code. We have filed multiple grievances from a procedural standpoint and some are headed to expedited arbitration and hope they are resolved in our favour as soon as possible.

Unifor Local 2002 will continue to keep the membership apprised of any further developments. Please stay tuned for further updates and subscribe to e-news at unifor2002.org. Please stay safe and healthy.

In solidarity,

Your Aeroplan Bargaining Committee

Ross McConkey, Bargaining Committee Representative

Jacky Lui, Bargaining Committee Representative

Vince De Sua, Bargaining Committee Representative

Stephen Lussier, Bargaining Committee Representative

Josée Genois, Assistant to Local 2002 President

Leslie Dias, Unifor Director – Airlines Sector

*******************************************************************************************************************************************************

Feb 05 2021,

Air Canada: Clarification on Mask Policy

Greetings,

The Bargaining Committee was advised of the new Mask Wearing Policy yesterday afternoon during a Zoom Meeting. Contrary to what Anthony Doyle’s message mentioned, the Bargaining Committee never gave its approval on this policy and no discussion occurred between the Union and the Company before Air Canada’s decision was made to implement it.

Unifor certainly understands the need to provide a secure work environment to the Contact Centre Employees, however, we have concerns about the necessity of applying such a drastic policy considering the very low number of employees still working within the various locations.

We immediately voiced our objections and also reiterated our request to allow all employees who are volunteering to participate in the Work from Home Program. Air Canada laconically responded that they would not move on this request until the grievance that Unifor has filed on the issue would be heard.

We understand how difficult this new policy can be for our members and we will advise you of any further developments.

In solidarity,

Your Unifor 2002 Bargaining Committee and

Your Unifor 2002 Health and Safety Representatives

*******************************************************************************************************************

Feb 04 2021,

Hello Everyone, The  Company is launching a new mask program starting Monday they will require you to wear a mask at you work stations for your entire shift. They are saying they want everyone to wear the double fabric masks and the only exceptions are when you drink or eat. We will re-act to this and push for an adequate solution.

Info clarified for Lay off affected employees, 

1. You should see your BMT contributions on your final pay after commencing lay off.

2. The Company has stated that you will have access to hr connex so you will have an opportunity to cash your time bank while on layoff.

3. The Company has stated When applying for EI please apply as an Individual applicant as it asks if you are a group lay off or individual.

Addition lay off information has not been provided yet will advise once we have.

Take Care

Ross.

*******************************************************************************************************************

Feb 03 2021,

Hello Everyone, The shift committee has completed the schedule. This schedule consists of 95 FTE and 17 PT Bidding never have we had such a small number of actives on a schedule. The Company has not changed our hours of operation so alot of you will be transitioning to evenings and week ends so be prepared.

These are really tough times, alot of our friends will be forced to lay-off that transition during this pandemic will be difficult for them so please reach out any way you can to offer comfort. I believe once this Virus starts to receed we will start immediately seeing business levels pick up and we will push hard for recall.

Unifor worked hard for Mitigation that would have had some impact on these lay-offs but ultimately the Company chose the easy path and put out options not many of our members could not afford to take or wouldn't at this stage of their careers.

More reductions are being announced shortly, we have not been given any numbers hoping to hear by Friday. This will impact this new schedule and we could find ourselves looking at a new build so stay tuned.

The Bid will commence on Tuesday Feb 09, the bid list will be out today. The Shift Bid Number remains 604 295 4141.

Again please be kind to your fellow employees, together we will make it through this!

Ross.

********************************************************************************************************************

Feb 2 2021

Air Canada / Aeroplan: Mitigation Update

The Aviation sector has endured unprecedented losses since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020. Members employed by Air Canada have already seen severe cuts to staffing and are bracing for further cuts. Most of our country has been in some form of lockdown since the middle of last year, but up until recently, our members were still assisting travellers to get where they needed to go. So, what’s changed?

On Friday, the federal government announced that Canada’s major air carriers - Air Canada, Westjet, Sunwing and Air Transat – would be canceling passenger service to all Caribbean destinations and Mexico from Sunday, January 31 until April 30, 2021. In addition to these route-suspensions, there are now additional quarantine restrictions for international travellers. These recent restrictions have had devastating effects on an industry that was already being severely impacted.

Unifor has been meeting virtually with Air Canada management to discuss possible mitigation programs to address surplus staffing that was announced on January 13, 2021. Air Canada will be providing options of only a few of the many proposals Unifor made that could have mitigated more jobs. Moreover, these discussions have now been stalled as Air Canada is now looking at the potential for additional surplus staffing due to the damaging new Federal Government regulations.

Airline workers offer a tremendous contribution to local economies and economic development, as well as supporting thriving families and communities in every province in Canada. Unifor recognizes that containment of COVID-19 and its variants is critical for the country’s recovery, but it should not come at the expense of dedicated and hardworking airline workers.

The aviation sector requires immediate financial government support, as well as the development of a national recovery plan to support the companies and their workers.

In Solidarity,

Unifor 2002 Air Canada Bargaining Committee

Unifor 2002 Aeroplan Bargaining Committee

************************************************************************************************************************************

October 19 2020,

Hello everyone,

I hope you all had a great thanksgiving albeit it probably was structured differently due to the pandemic! We all need to releflect and give thanks this mess will eventually end. Vacation bid is coming up November 2, please watch for the communication from the Company. 

Take Care,

Ross

****************************************************************************************************************************************

October 7 2020,

Hello Everyone,

I would like to thank everyone for the support and trust in electing me for a 5th term as your District Chair, I will continue to support,  advocate  and ensure we are looked after at Vancouver Aeroplan. We have a great team assembled to carry out the good work we do. I want to applaud Erin, Jacky and Sabrina on thier re-election to Vice Chair. I would also like to welcome Linda Mills, Trish Levesque and Carey Bowman to the team, three new reps all great work place leaders.Folks we are well equiped to tackle all that comes our way! The next few months will have its challenges so please remain safe and please treat each other with kindness in times like these we really need to rely on each other.

Take Care,

Ross

****************************************************************************************************************************************

Notice of Election Results TO: Local 2002 members Aeroplan D104 FROM: Local 2002 Elections Committee SUBJECT: Election for the following position: District Chairperson Vice-Chairperson DATE: October 7, 2020 The Local 2002 Election Committee is pleased to announce the following election results: Candidate: District Chairperson Candidat : Président(e) de district # votes | # de votes Ross McConkey – ELECTED | ÉLU 140 Shannon Rusnick 54 Spoiled ballots cast Bulletins de vote annulés 3 Total ballots cast Bulletins de vote déposés 197 In solidarity | En toute solidarité, Manon Camiré Unifor Local 2002 Elections Committee Member Membre du comité d'élection de la section locale 2002 CC: Vice-Presidents/Vice-président(e)s Avis des résultats d’élection DESTINATAIRES : Membres de la section locale 2002 Aeroplan D104 DE LA PART DU : Comité d’élection de la section locale 2002 OBJET : Élection au poste suivant : Présidente ou Président de district Vice-présidente ou Vice-président de district DATE: 7 octobre 2020 Le Comité d'élection de la section locale 2002 a le plaisir d’annoncer les résultats de l’élection suivant : Candidate: Vice-Chairperson Candidat : Vice-président(e) de district # votes | # de votes Jason Lum 75 Trish Levesque– ELECTED | ÉLUE 120 Sabrina Di Stefano– ELECTED | ÉLUE 107 Jack Lui– ELECTED | ÉLU 173 Erin Draper– ELECTED | ÉLUE 134 Carey Bowman– ELECTED | ÉLUE 114 Linda Mills– ELECTED | ÉLUE 114 Rina Diaz-Orellana 39 Spoiled ballots cast Bulletins de vote annulés 1 Total ballots cast B 

Oct 02 2020,

Hi Everyone, 

Company has sent out a survey in regards to telework (WFH). The union has voiced to the company, the union has not signed off to the permanent option of working from home until further discussions with the union. Language, safety and other factors will have to be discussed. Any questions please email or drop by the union office.

Your Union Team     

Sept 21 2020,

Election for District Chair and Vice Chair and  Health and Safety in affect. 

Candidates are as follows,

DC 1 position

Ross McConkey

Shannon Rusnick

VC  6 positions

Erin Draper        Sabrina Di stefano   Linda Mills

Jackie lui             Carey Bowman         Trish Levesque

Jason Lum         Rina  Diaz Orellana

Health and Safety

Acclaimed     Jeff and Geoff.

Voting done by e-vote starting October 1st and ending October 6th.

Take Care everyone,

Ross.

******************************************************************************************************************************************

Sept 02 2020

Unifor 2002 has posted the writ of election for the position of District Representatives. The term of office is three (3) years and begins November 1, 2020. Nominations close September 17, 2020.

A minimum of seven days’ notice will be given for the dates of the election if the local office receives more nomination forms than positions available.

Members will vote by electronic balloting only. All voting times will be posted in the workplace and on the Unifor 2002 website (unifor2002.org).

In order to vote electronically — from anywhere you can get an internet connection — you must have an updated voter profile. If you have voted electronically or have registered to vote electronically in the past, and your personal email address has not changed, you do not need to complete this form.

Haven’t registered? Email changed? 

Please complete the voter profile form on the Unifor 2002 website:

http://www.unifor2002.org/Services-Departments/Elections/Update-Your-Voter-Profile

Please don’t delay. Electronic voting is fast, convenient and secure.

In solidarity,

Manon Camiré

Unifor Local 2002 Elections Committee Member

****************************************************************************************

August 17,2020

Hello Everyone,  First of all a great big welcome BACK to our 32 agents that were off on CEWS this summer and the 21 probationary employees. Its good to have you back home and safe!

We are building a new schedule this week. Don't miss the Bid Next week August 25th.

It really has been quite a strange period, lots of changes and moving forward more changes. Please take on what you can you have time to learn and understand everything that is being trained. If you are feeling pressure please drop by and we will assist you anyway we can.

Take Care, stay safe and be kind. We are all in this together.

Ross.

****************************************************************************************************************************************

TO: Local 2002 members

FROM: Unifor Local 2002 Elections Committee Chairperson

DATE: August 4, 2020

Unifor 2002 has posted the writ of election for the position of

President, Secretary Treasurer, and 7 Regional Vice-

Presidents. The term of office for the President and Secretary

Treasurer begins immediately following the election. The

term of office for the Vice-Presidents begins September 30,

2020. Nominations close August 18, 2020.

A minimum of seven days’ notice will be given for the dates of

the election if the local office receives more nomination

forms than positions available.

Members will vote by electronic balloting only. 

All voting

times will be posted in the workplace and on the Unifor 2002

website (unifor2002.org).

In order to vote electronically — from anywhere you can get

an internet connection — you must have an updated voter

profile. If you have voted electronically or have registered to

vote electronically in the past, and your personal email

address has not changed, you do not need to complete this

form.

Haven’t registered? Email changed? Please complete the

voter profile form on the Unifor 2002 website:

http://www.unifor2002.org/Services-Departments/Elections/Update-Your-Voter-Profile

Please don’t delay. Electronic voting is fast, convenient and

secure.

In solidarity,

Manon Camiré

Unifor Local 2002 Election Committee Member

Feb. 01 2021

**************************** UPDATE ***********************************************************************

Hello Everyone,

The Bargaining Commitee was on a call last Thursday, talking about potential mitigation. The Company agreed to take away and get back to us. Well alot has changed since thursday, the news broke all major Canadian carriers are shutting down service to the Caribbean and Mexico. The Union has now been advise the Company will be cutting more Aeroplan employees. We have no numbers as of yet but will publish once we hear this. 

We understand this news may cause concern and will try to get accurate updates A.S.A.P.

Take Care,

Ross.

*****************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************

Aeroplan Members: Mitigation Update for January 29, 2021 

On January 28, 2021, the Aeroplan Bargaining Committee and the Company met via video conference to address and discuss the recent lay-off announcement. During the video call, several mitigation proposals were tabled and discussed. The Company responded that they will require additional time to review the proposals.  We have informed the Company of the severity of the situation and the importance of reaching a timely solution.  

The Bargaining Committee is committed to working together to find viable solutions to minimize the impact on our members.  We recognize how difficult these times are for our members, please know that we are advocating for you and we will continue to protect the interest and rights of our members.

Unifor Local 2002 will continue to keep the membership apprised of any further developments. Please stay tuned for further updates and subscribe to e-news at www.unifor2002.org

In Solidarity,

Your Aeroplan Bargaining Committee

Ross McConkey, Bargaining Committee Representative

Jacky Lui, Bargaining Committee Representative

Vince De Sua, Bargaining Committee Representative

Stephen Lussier, Bargaining Committee Representative

Josée Genois, Assistant to Local 2002 President

Leslie Dias, Unifor Director – Airlines Sector

Jan 28 2021

Calling on all Political Activists: Joins us for a Zoom Call

on Friday, January 29, 2021, at 1300 EST

Dear Local 2002 Activists,

Martin Melanson (Local 2002 Vice President – Atlantic Region) is inviting all political activists to join him on a Zoom call this Friday, January 29, 2021, at 13:00 EST. We all know that the state of Canadian Aviation is in dire straits as we continue to see further layoffs, base closures, flight cancellations, and increasing travel restrictions.

Unifor National has been working feverishly to persuade the government to support and to assist airlines with financial aid.  Across Canada let’s add our voices and advocate that keeping Canadian Aviation is viable and paramount to Canada’s economic recovery.

On Friday, January 29, 2021, we will have a preliminary discussion with those that are politically inclined on providing strategies that we can carry out on a grassroots level. If this is you, please send an email to Martin so that he can send you a Zoom link. martin@unifor2002.org

In Solidarity,

Don Ross

Interim President – Unifor Local 2002

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Jan 26 2021,    Q and A FOR Lay Offs,

Hello group, extremely trying times right now, We recognise the emotional toll this can have on the effected from lay-off. Please try to take care of your selves, we will continue to montior this situation and push for your return when ever the opportunity's are available.

I may have miscommunicated, the layoff recall is 60 months for all lay off employees that's 5 years.

Other Important questions we have had clarified,

Q: The prepayment of benefits, can we opt in for these indivually, ie. perhaps all I wanted was Dental or life Insurance?

A: Yes: You must identify which plans you wish to maintain while on leave. Pre payment must be in the form of post dated cheques.

Q: What are the amounts for each benefit we would choose to pre pay?

A: 12 post dated cheques need to be written , These two examples for a full time equivalent. These were the only examples provided at this time.

• 523.39 for Medical

• 158.35 for Dental

Q: Will employees have Access to their personal travel profiles?

A:Lay Off Employees will have access to their personal travel profiles until December 21 2022.

Q: Will time bank be emptied onto final pay commencing Lay offs?

A: Yes: It will be on the final pay.

Q: Will Vacation reconcilliation be on the final pay?

A: Yes: it will be on the final pay.

Keep us informed of any concerns you may and while on lay off please keep in touch.

Best, Take Care,

Ross.

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Jan 25 2021,

Message your EAP Representative,

It's me again ...Just checking in on my Favorite Peeps.  I know a lot of you have been notified of layoffs and its okay to be scared.  Being scared means you are about to do something Really...Really ... Brave!  Life is about change...sometimes it's Painful..sometimes it's Beautiful, but most of the time it's Both.  True success can be defined by your ability to adapt to changing circumstances.  Tough times never last, but tough people do!!!!

I want to remind you all you have ongoing support available to you whether it be  personal, financial or family help you may need.  It is only a phone call away...you are not alone, reach out if you need to ... it's there for you...please use it.

By the time this COVID/SCHMOVID is done...we will all be experts at change.  Hope to see you all soon...in the meantime stay healthy, stay connected, eat junk food, enjoy every day and most of all be Kind to yourselves. 

"We are all brave enough to say Goodbye ... life will reward us with a new Hello"

XOXO 

Kindest regards,

Angelika and GiGi  ️ ️ ️

EAP Representative

angelika@unifor2002.org

info@unifor2002.org

CRISIS LINE: 1 - 844 - 880 -9143

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Jan 23 2021,

Airlines and unions urge cooperation as federal government considers potential new measures to reduce air travel

Flights and passenger traffic have already dropped by 90% from pre-pandemic levels

Government should consider science and data and consult with industry and unions before further action to avoid unintended consequences

Canada’s largest airline industry association and the unions representing more than 325,000 Canadian workers today urged the federal government to consult with them before it enacts new measures to reduce travel.

Airline passenger traffic has dropped precipitously since the onset of the pandemic. As of November 2020, international arrivals had dropped a staggering 93%. With already dramatically reduced passenger traffic, Canada’s airlines have attempted to continue essential operations with unpredictable to non-existent revenues. Tens of thousands of airline employees have already lost their jobs and direct financial aid from the government has not yet materialized.

In a joint letter, NACC and union leaders urged Cabinet members to collaborate with industry. "Over the course of the pandemic, industry, labour, and government have for the most part worked effectively to implement a myriad of new regulations designed to continue to protect employee, passenger and public health," said Mike McNaney, President & CEO, National Airlines Council of Canada. "Airlines and airline workers are the front-line implementors of these policy changes. We need to work together to ensure an effective outcome for all involved."

"Throughout this pandemic, each one of our unions has advocated for public and passenger safety," said Tim Perry, ALPA Canada President. "Today is no different, as we seek to work with the government on a path forward with continued safe operation, based on a robust science- and data-based testing regime for quarantine measures and any additional restrictions."

To date, less than 2% of all cases reported in Canada are from those who travelled outside of the country. Since September, cases associated with international travel have represented 1$ or less. Health agencies in Canada and globally have also publicly recognized the low risk of transmission onboard aircraft, including for international travel.

"The federal government has acknowledged the importance of our sector as we continue to connect Canada to the rest of the world for key goods and services – such as PPE, vaccines and ongoing items – and to ensure that same flow within our borders," said Rob Giguere, CEO, ACPA. "While passenger volumes remain very depressed, for those routes that continue to operate, our pilots are often flying aircraft bellies full of cargo, representing a vital element of our continued supply chain."

"While further travel restrictions are being considered, the message from airline workers remains clear, government financial aid for our devastated industry is long overdue," said Jerry Dias, Unifor National President. "With a 90% drop in traffic, our airlines have been burning through cash, and we still have not seen aid anywhere near what other international carriers have received. Canada needs to act urgently on this front."

"We need to ensure that we avoid even further job losses that will be caused by additional travel restrictions," said Wesley Lesosky, Component President, Air Canada Component of CUPE & President, Airline Division of CUPE. "We support well considered safety measures, but we also need to ensure Canada’s aviation industry is positioned for eventual recovery, to provide hope to the tens of thousands of aviation employees who have lost their livelihood."

NACC and the unions representing aviation workers support a fulsome testing strategy that draws from procedures in other countries as well as the ongoing work of the International Civil Aviation Organization as it continues to develop global best practices in conjunction with leading member countries, including Canada.

"For nearly a year, airlines have adapted quickly throughout this global crisis,” said NACC’s McNaney. “We want to work with government as a partner, as measures are being discussed, to assure effective implementation and avoid unintended consequences. The recently introduced pre-departure testing regime placed a great deal of strain on our industry as we sought to implement the new requirements in the span of one week, working with officials at a feverish pace to develop the necessary regulations and guidance material."

ACPA | ALPA | UNIFOR | CUPE | NACC

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Jan 20 2021,

Unifor Update on Aeroplan mitigation

January 19, 2021 at 4:00 PM

Dear members,

Thank you for your patience as we work through this ongoing and changing process concerning mitigation solutions. We recognize that members are noticeably anxious and our intent with this bulletin is to dispel some of the stress that the employer’s staff reduction process may be causing.

Unifor is still waiting for Air Canada’s Labour Relations and Corporate Resource Planning department to provide us with the final surplus numbers taking into account those who may already be out of the workplace. We have been waiting on this data since the surplus was announced. The company is analyzing the requirements, and to date we have not received the details. We understand the uncertainty is stressful for our members.

The employer is intent on seeing what response they get to the Leave of Absence (LOA) program before considering and committing to additional mitigation measures. The union has reinforced the need for the LOAs to include benefits to make them more attractive and applicable for members. We have confirmed that there is no service adjustment and salary advancement as previously advised.

To be clear on the LOA program in its current state; IF a different mitigation program becomes available, the member would not be eligible to cancel or switch to a different mitigation program as the rules for the SVLOA is very specific:

1. Terms and Conditions Leaves of absence once approved are not rescindable by the employee except by agreement of the Company following the written request of the employee(s) involved.

The union has provided a list of mitigation options to the company to kick-start discussions so that no member would be involuntarily displaced. Those options can be found below/attached. It appears unlikely that mitigation talks will not begin until Thursday of this week.

We will keep you informed once more information becomes available.

In solidarity,

Your Aeroplan Bargaining Committee

Ross McConkey, Bargaining Committee Representative

Jacky Lui, Bargaining Committee Representative

Vince De Sua, Bargaining Committee Representative

Stephen Lussier, Bargaining Committee Representative

Josée Genois, Assistant to Local 2002 President

Leslie Dias, Unifor Director – Airlines Sector

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Jan 18 2021,

Aeroplan offers SVLOAs, further discussions expected Canada’s aviation sector continues to struggle as COVID-19 tears through our communities, and destroys what is left of our airline industry. If there is any doubt, this sector has been one of the hardest-hit globally. We see it first hand everyday as we continue to deliver stellar customer service while our industry is shamed and blamed. This cannot continue. The inevitable failure of the government to put in place a National Aviation Strategy to weather the pandemic as has been done in most of the rest of the developed world, has been the major contributing factor to where we are today. Financial assistance was promised by the government in November, but to date, we are still waiting for a formal substantive announcement. In the meantime, with further reductions in flights due to the ongoing pandemic and provincial travel restrictions, there is a surplus of employees. Unifor has a number of mitigation proposals that could be used to ensure that no one is involuntarily displaced, however, Aeroplan has not yet found the time to discuss those options with us. Instead, Aeroplan has resorted to the old and tired standby, Special Leave of Absence (SVLOA) program. The SVLOA – in its current form – is not a viable solution. It would be more advantageous if the company paid the benefits and awarded service for vacation entitlement and salary advancement. We will update you once we meet Aeroplan next week. There is a myriad of other options available that would ensure voluntary participation from our membership. In solidarity, Your Aeroplan Bargaining Committee Ross McConkey, Bargaining Committee Representative Jacky Lui, Bargaining Committee Representative Vince De Sua, Bargaining Committee Representative Stephen Lussier, Bargaining Committee Representative Josée Genois, Assistant to Local 2002 President Leslie Dias, Unifor Director – Airlines Sector 

Jan 18 2021,

NATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY COORDINATOR APPOINTED - SYLVIE SCHMITT 

The Executive Board of Unifor Local 2002 is pleased to announce that Sylvie Schmitt an Air Canada Customer Experience Specialist from Winnipeg, MB has been appointed to the position of National Health and Safety Coordinator for Unifor Local 2002, effective April 1st, 2021. She will be replacing Ian Bennie who will be retiring on March 31st, 2021.

In her new capacity with the Local, Sylvie will provide advice and expertise in the areas of health and safety to members, staff, and elected workplace representatives. She will be responsible for the development, implementation, and maintenance of safe work practices in the workplace.  She will seek employer collaboration and will make recommendations on health and safety issues and procedures.  This will entail conducting risk assessments, providing training and education, and ensuring compliance with Canada Labour Code regulations.

Sylvie’s distinctive career path includes 22 years as an Unifor Local 2002 Health and Safety Representative, 8 years as a Training Co-facilitator for Unifor Local 2002- Federal Health & Safety training program, and several years as a member of the Air Canada Policy Committee. She brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to this role; she is well versed in collective agreement issues and the grievance process.  She is bilingual and has been a union and political activist most of her working career. Sylvie earned her Bachelor of Science Degree from the Université De Saint-Boniface in 1994.

We are confident that Sylvie’s leadership and experience will deliver the collaboration we need as we work towards safety excellence.  On behalf of the Local 2002 Executive Board, I warmly congratulate Sylvie and welcome her to this new position. 

I also take this opportunity to thank Ian Bennie, our National Health & Safety Coordinator since 1998, for his remarkable work and contributions to the overall health and safety of our Local. He has been a huge asset to our Local, members, staff, and workplace representatives.  We are certain that the guidance you have provided over the years has positioned our Local on solid ground for the challenges that lay ahead.  

In the remaining period, before Ian officially retires, he will dedicate his time to ensure a seamless transition. He will personally train and mentor Sylvie as his new replacement so she may also deliver the caliber of service that Ian has provided to both the Local and the membership.

In Solidarity,

Don Ross

Interim President – Unifor Local 2002

Jan 18 2021,

Aeroplan Members:Vacancy - Pension Communications Representative for Air Canada

Unifor Local 2002 requires one (1) Unifor Pension Plan member from legacy Air Canada Defined Pension Plan to fill the position of Pension Communication Representative.

As per the Unifor Local 2002 bylaws, the term of office for this position ends on February 29, 2024. 

The member appointed will be the liaison between Air Canada and Unifor members represented by the Pension Plan and will work with the Air Canada Bargaining Committee.

Duties and responsibilities of the Pension Communication Committee

• Promote awareness and understanding of the Pension Plan to Unifor members

• Yearly review of the financial, actuarial, and administrative aspects of the Plans

• Other administrative duties as are presented by the applicable Pension legislation and/or the administrator

• Provide support and information to the Bargaining Committee

• Additional duties as may be specified by the Plans or the Bargaining Committee

The duties of the Pension Communications Committee will not include amending provisions of the Pension Plan.

Qualifications

• Unifor 2002 member in good standing from any Air Canada Unit, (Aeroplan, In-Flight, Flight Ops, Mainline).

• Knowledge and interest in Pension benefits is an asset 

• Commitment to communicate and share information with Unifor members and all Air Canada Bargaining Committees

• Must attend a minimum of two meetings per year and be willing to travel.

• Must be bilingual spoken/written.

Unifor Local 2002 members in good standing interested in applying should send a resume outlining their particular experience in the area of Finances/Pensions and their reasons for applying for the position no later than February 1st, 2021, at noon EST.

The successful candidate will report to the President of Unifor Local 2002.  Only qualified candidates will be interviewed.

Please mail, fax, or email your statement of qualifications and cover letter to Unifor Local 2002 – Kerry Turner:

Attention: Kerry Turner - Air Canada Pension Communications Representative 

Email: kerry@unifor2002.org

Fax: (905) 678-0100/ (866) 635-5956

Tel: (905) 678-1551

January 13, 2021.

******** UPDATE Company Announced Lay offs**********************************************************************************************

Hello Everyone, The Company this morning sent an email announcing layoff's system wide. The union was advised when you were so we have been scrambling to get the accurate info this morning. Roughly 90 people will be placed on layoff between the two offices. We will be in discussions regarding any potential mitigation. If you are the affected the company will be sending a letter to you. It is truly a sad out come for us, this pandemic unfortunately keeps lingering on. Our hope is some mitigation and this being a very short layoff.

Please call if you have any concerns, 

Take care and stay safe,

Ross

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December 22 2020,                                  * Happy Holidays! *

Hello Everyone, 

What can we say, quite a journey we all have been on.We never imagined how quickly the pandemic could put us into a precarious position at work and in everyday life. All along we have been finding our way with our once old, now new employer. All the adjusting, training and restrictions you have endured will surely go down as the most difficult and taxing year of your careers. And yet we are ok, we have survived to fight another day. The Vaccine brings alot of promise that our lives may return to some resemblence of what we had, pointing out that 2021 can only be better than the year we all have just traversed. 

The Union Team and I would like to wish you Happy Holidays! We also understand that it will be challenging that we may not see friends and loved ones. Please still do all in your power to reach out to your circle of loved ones. Also try to find some peace this holiday season. Reflect and Support others as we all live through this Pandemic with different circumstances that impact us in different ways.

We remain intact and for that I feel greatful. Although we do not know exaxctly what our future will bring we do know how to weather the worst.

Happy Holidays, Take Care.

Ross, and your Union Team!

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Dec 22 2020,     Message From your EAP Rep!

Hi Everyone,

My Letter to you all has been long overdue.  I apologize for not reaching out much earlier...I have moved to my new Home with GiGi  and still unpacking 20 Years of Memories...But that is not an excuse ...because we are ALL busy in our own lives.... so please accept my sincere apology.

Welcome back Newbies!  In case you didn't know or you forgot!!! (which is impossible since I am Unforgettable)  I am your EAP Representative, I am here for your concerns, may they be work related, personal or family, or health issues, I can direct you to sources that are available for all of us. It is totally private and confidential....it's a great benefit that we have .... especially with all these uncertain times.

For the people at the Office.. I hope you enjoy each other's company and laugh out loud, eat chips...maybe do a pot luck (if allowed).  I do miss seeing all of you ... I love talking to you on the phones...I see your faces in front of me...even the annoying ones LOL  

Working from Home has been a blessing for a lot of us.  One thing has become very clear, although it is nice to be Home...it is also very lonely and isolating at times.  Not to mention this "##*%@ VIRUS" on top of all that it can get a bit unnerving and scarry.

We have to remember we are "All in this together" and we will all come out of this OK!!! I try to go out and walk Gigi as often as possible, I do a lot of FaceTiming with my Family and un-endless texting with friends.  It snowed here yesterday and it was just Beautiful .... find goodness and pleasure in the most simplest things.  Holidays coming up will be different... but we need to find the good in ALL and simply remember we are NEVER alone and only a phone call away!!

I wish you a most beautiful Holiday Season and looking forward to an AWESOME Next Year!!!  All the Best to you and your Families.

Kindest regards,

Angelika and GiGi  ️ ️ ️

EAP Representative

angelika@unifor2002.org

info@unifor2002.org

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Dec 22 2020,

Late Yesterday the Company has announced LOA'S Leaves of Absence.

The Company is offering LOA'S IN 30, 60 and 90 day leaves. These LOA'S will not impact your Company seniorty. You can maintain your benefits but must pay the premiums in advance, such as mediacl dental and gidip.

You will be offered a period to buy back your pension time.

You need to submit your intent to the Company no later than December 29. All leaves will commence on January 3.

Also, we were preapred to purchase hot food for the folks stuck working Christmas Day, unfortunatly  the Company has put a System wide policy banning any such events during the pandemic. We will do it down the road when this thing subsides more importantly now is you all stay safe.

Take Care,

Ross

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Dec 07,2020.

With the Holiday season Quickly approaching and unfortunate times due to COVID 19. Erin is not able to due her anual support in house for the Downtown Eastside Womens Shelter. She is asking those that still want to donate to this worthy cause to do so directly. This non profit organization helps so many and continues to count on donations to operate.

Please go to dewc.ca and donate.

Many thanks,

Erin, and your union team.

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Dec 03,2020

Hello Everyone, quick up date,

We've moved our office. We are now located 2 doors down in the old AIMIA mailroom. Come down and check it out. I would like to remind you all the shift BID happening Tuesday December 8th. This schedule is expected to take us till April 10, 2021 

We still have a lot of interest of employees wanting to WFH. We are being told that most likely in January but trying to get some agents there sooner. Will advise if anything changes with this issue.

Most importantly everyone please respect each other and remember everyone is processing all the change and covid differently, lean on eachother for support.

Take Care,

Ross

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November 25, 2020.

The Company has announced they wish to do a shift bid next week the 30th. we will build the schedule. The following week we will Bid, week of December 7. I did inquire to why, the Company has stated minor changes nothing major to expect. the new schedule should carry us through to March 2021.

I would like to ask that everyone try to remain respectful when speaking amongst ourselves this has become a very stressful and trying period. The training has been alot of fire by the seat of your pants and has affected everyone. Please continue to use the chat teams for what it is intended for. To support each other not divide. Many of you depend on your colleagues for support and teams provides the comradery that the working side by side can. The major difference is when you write in teams your audience is everyone not just the agent next to you. We really need to keep relying on each other during this difficult time.

Everyone take care one day, one call at a time,

Ross.

Nov 20, 2020

Dear members,

We have witnessed an alarming worldwide increase in gender-based violence during this pandemic. Given this, events marking the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women will take on increased importance.

On December 6th, the 31st anniversary of the Montreal Massacre, we will be holding an online vigil at 2 -3 pm Eastern Time.

This will be a time to reflect together and to work to make change.

In solidarity,

Jerry Dias

Unifor National President

***

Chers membres,

Nous avons assisté à une augmentation alarmante de la violence fondée sur le genre dans le monde entier pendant cette pandémie. Dans ce contexte, les événements marquant la Journée nationale de commémoration et d'action contre la violence faite aux femmes prendront une importance accrue.

Le 6 décembre, jour du 31e anniversaire du massacre de Montréal, nous organiserons une vigile en ligne de 14 h à 15 h, heure de l'Est.

Ce sera l'occasion de réfléchir ensemble et de travailler à apporter des changements.

Après la vigile, nous nous diviserons en groupes régionaux pour travailler à l'action politique visant à mettre fin à la violence fondée sur le genre, en mettant l'accent sur le rapport final de l'enquête sur les femmes et les filles autochtones disparues et assassinées.

Veuillez vous joindre à nous en vous inscrivant dès aujourd'hui. Le nombre de places est limité pour cet événement en ligne. Les sections locales sont encouragées à partager cet événement avec leurs membres, les membres des comités sur la condition féminine, et les militantes et militants.

En toute solidarité,

Jerry Dias

Président national d’Unifor

...

[Message clipped]  View entire message

In solidarity, 

Jerry Dias

Unifor National President 

Nov 13, 2020

MEMBERSHIP BULLETIN

UNIFOR LOCAL 2002 GROUP INSURANCE DISABILITY INCOME PLAN (GIDIP)

November 2020

To All Members:

The GIDIP Board of Trustees have been working diligently with Canadian Benefits (Plan Administrator) during the last few

months. We understand the challenges our membership have faced within the Airline Industry over the past several months as a

result of COVID-19 pandemic, as well as the impact this has had on workers and their families. We hope you are all keeping

safe and healthy.

Our emerging challenge is the increased cost required by the Insurer, Manulife Financial, to maintain GIDIP benefits for our

Membership based on the recent claims’ levels. The GIDIP Plan has experienced high utilization costs and significantly lower

contributions due to the recent layoffs.

The GIDIP Plan renewal negotiations this year have been intense. The Insurer’s original position included an increase to the

Short-Term Disability (STD) Plan of 26% and an increase to the Long-Term Disability (LTD) of 10%. Your Trustees felt this was

unjustified and for the last two months have been working with Canadian Benefits (Plan Administrator) and the Insurer to find an

acceptable solution.

Following the negotiations with the Insurer, they have agreed to modify their initial position, which resulted in a reduction in the

increase previously proposed by the Insurer. The increase rate will now be; STD 8% and LTD 8%. This increase will amount to

approximately $500,000 annually. This cost will be absorbed by the Trust Fund Investments prudently built up over the past few

years, so there will be no change in the contribution rates. The current rate is 3.542% of your gross earnings which has not

changed since 2008. However, there are some minor changes and improvements to the Plan as noted below.

The following GIDIP Plan changes will take effect January 1, 2021:

 STD Phase I benefit maximum will increase from $575 to $600 weekly (non-taxable to the disabled member).

 STD Proof of Claim Notice will be shortened for submission to 3 months from the current 6 months.

Written proof of claim must be submitted to the Plan Administrator no later than 3 months following the initial date of

disability. In addition, any requests made by the Plan Administrator for further medical evidence will be required to be

submitted within the 3 month period as well.

As a result of these plan changes, there are no increased costs to our Membership. However, your Trustees will monitor

closely the emerging experience as a result of these improvements.

Further to the above, it was the intention of the Trustees to implement a one (1) week reduced waiting period to the GIDIP STDI

Elimination period (from the current two (2) weeks) to match the Employment Insurance (EI) changes effective January 1, 2021.

However, due to the Employer’s inability to meet the required deadline to implement this improvement, and also provide the

service level required to effectively manage this implementation, we expect to announce this Plan improvement in the upcoming

months of 2021.

The Trustees will continue to update the Membership on a regular basis going forward as there have been many misconceptions

and erroneous statements made about the true value of the GIDIP.

We will continue to keep you informed of the financial position of our GIDIP Plan and we are confident that the Plan represents

the best value for money and protection of our Memberships wages.

In Solidarity,

Ross McConkey, Gidip trustee Pacific Region.

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November 11, 2020

Hello Everyone, Please take a moment of silence at 11:11 to pay respect for those who made the ultimate sacrifice to preserve our way of life! 

Thanks, Your Union Team.

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October 27 2020, WFH and communication.

In an effort to communicate more efficiently we are gathering a list of current personal emails to deliver important information to you. We recognise that with a large part of our work force working from home we need other means to deliver important and time sensitive information. Please forward your personal emails to Cawd104@gmail.com

We will add you to the master list we will keep confidential,

Many Thanks

Ross and Team.

********************************************************************************************************************************************

October 26 2020,

Good Morning everyone,

I understand from talking to many of you that after receiving the limited training you have gotten its all a little overwhelming! We were assured that there will be adequet floor walkers to assist you when we go live. The one point that has not been clarified is the help desk idea, I will be inquiring this week what the final plans are for that. We were also told that some mini refresher training were in the works for you. Having said all that take your time if you are not sure put your customer on hold seek clarity it is quiet now so the pressure to move on to the next customer should not be enforced. Learn live, we have a history of being testers this isnt anything new to us. The other point I would like to make, the company has an obligation to make sure you are trained and comfortable in any situation you encounter doing this job. Please reach out first to your TM, and if the support is not forth coming then the Union, We will ensure you get the support you deserve. The whole Pandemic has put a twist on this launch, traditional training had to be morphed into a virtual enviorment . The classroom has now become a zoom call and its is more difficult to comprehend information than the classroom. This tells us all this training may take a little longer and cause a little more stress. Take heed you are not alone evryone is facing this and we need to support one another. Please reach out to the Union for any questions about this subject we will advocate 100 percent to make sure the training you need is available and that you understand the content.

Always available, call 604 295 4220 or email cawd104@gmail.com

Take care,

Ross.

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October 19 2020,

Hello everyone,

I hope you all had a great thanksgiving albeit it probably was structured differently due to the pandemic! We all need to releflect and give thanks this mess will eventually end. Vacation bid is coming up November 2, please watch for the communication from the Company. 

Take Care,

Ross

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October 7 2020,

Hello Everyone,

I would like to thank everyone for the support and trust in electing me for a 5th term as your District Chair, I will continue to support,  advocate  and ensure we are looked after at Vancouver Aeroplan. We have a great team assembled to carry out the good work we do. I want to applaud Erin, Jacky and Sabrina on thier re-election to Vice Chair. I would also like to welcome Linda Mills, Trish Levesque and Carey Bowman to the team, three new reps all great work place leaders.Folks we are well equiped to tackle all that comes our way! The next few months will have its challenges so please remain safe and please treat each other with kindness in times like these we really need to rely on each other.

Take Care,

Ross

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Notice of Election Results TO: Local 2002 members Aeroplan D104 FROM: Local 2002 Elections Committee SUBJECT: Election for the following position: District Chairperson Vice-Chairperson DATE: October 7, 2020 The Local 2002 Election Committee is pleased to announce the following election results: Candidate: District Chairperson Candidat : Président(e) de district # votes | # de votes Ross McConkey – ELECTED | ÉLU 140 Shannon Rusnick 54 Spoiled ballots cast Bulletins de vote annulés 3 Total ballots cast Bulletins de vote déposés 197 In solidarity | En toute solidarité, Manon Camiré Unifor Local 2002 Elections Committee Member Membre du comité d'élection de la section locale 2002 CC: Vice-Presidents/Vice-président(e)s Avis des résultats d’élection DESTINATAIRES : Membres de la section locale 2002 Aeroplan D104 DE LA PART DU : Comité d’élection de la section locale 2002 OBJET : Élection au poste suivant : Présidente ou Président de district Vice-présidente ou Vice-président de district DATE: 7 octobre 2020 Le Comité d'élection de la section locale 2002 a le plaisir d’annoncer les résultats de l’élection suivant : Candidate: Vice-Chairperson Candidat : Vice-président(e) de district # votes | # de votes Jason Lum 75 Trish Levesque– ELECTED | ÉLUE 120 Sabrina Di Stefano– ELECTED | ÉLUE 107 Jack Lui– ELECTED | ÉLU 173 Erin Draper– ELECTED | ÉLUE 134 Carey Bowman– ELECTED | ÉLUE 114 Linda Mills– ELECTED | ÉLUE 114 Rina Diaz-Orellana 39 Spoiled ballots cast Bulletins de vote annulés 1 Total ballots cast B 

Oct 02 2020,

Hi Everyone, 

Company has sent out a survey in regards to telework (WFH). The union has voiced to the company, the union has not signed off to the permanent option of working from home until further discussions with the union. Language, safety and other factors will have to be discussed. Any questions please email or drop by the union office.

Your Union Team     

Sept 21 2020,

Election for District Chair and Vice Chair and  Health and Safety in affect. 

Candidates are as follows,

DC 1 position

Ross McConkey

Shannon Rusnick

VC  6 positions

Erin Draper        Sabrina Di stefano   Linda Mills

Jackie lui             Carey Bowman         Trish Levesque

Jason Lum         Rina  Diaz Orellana

Health and Safety

Acclaimed     Jeff and Geoff.

Voting done by e-vote starting October 1st and ending October 6th.

Take Care everyone,

Ross.

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Sept 02 2020

Unifor 2002 has posted the writ of election for the position of District Representatives. The term of office is three (3) years and begins November 1, 2020. Nominations close September 17, 2020.

A minimum of seven days’ notice will be given for the dates of the election if the local office receives more nomination forms than positions available.

Members will vote by electronic balloting only. All voting times will be posted in the workplace and on the Unifor 2002 website (unifor2002.org).

In order to vote electronically — from anywhere you can get an internet connection — you must have an updated voter profile. If you have voted electronically or have registered to vote electronically in the past, and your personal email address has not changed, you do not need to complete this form.

Haven’t registered? Email changed? 

Please complete the voter profile form on the Unifor 2002 website:

http://www.unifor2002.org/Services-Departments/Elections/Update-Your-Voter-Profile

Please don’t delay. Electronic voting is fast, convenient and secure.

In solidarity,

Manon Camiré

Unifor Local 2002 Elections Committee Member

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August 17,2020

Hello Everyone,  First of all a great big welcome BACK to our 32 agents that were off on CEWS this summer and the 21 probationary employees. Its good to have you back home and safe!

We are building a new schedule this week. Don't miss the Bid Next week August 25th.

It really has been quite a strange period, lots of changes and moving forward more changes. Please take on what you can you have time to learn and understand everything that is being trained. If you are feeling pressure please drop by and we will assist you anyway we can.

Take Care, stay safe and be kind. We are all in this together.

Ross.

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TO: Local 2002 members

FROM: Unifor Local 2002 Elections Committee Chairperson

DATE: August 4, 2020

Unifor 2002 has posted the writ of election for the position of

President, Secretary Treasurer, and 7 Regional Vice-

Presidents. The term of office for the President and Secretary

Treasurer begins immediately following the election. The

term of office for the Vice-Presidents begins September 30,

2020. Nominations close August 18, 2020.

A minimum of seven days’ notice will be given for the dates of

the election if the local office receives more nomination

forms than positions available.

Members will vote by electronic balloting only. 

All voting

times will be posted in the workplace and on the Unifor 2002

website (unifor2002.org).

In order to vote electronically — from anywhere you can get

an internet connection — you must have an updated voter

profile. If you have voted electronically or have registered to

vote electronically in the past, and your personal email

address has not changed, you do not need to complete this

form.

Haven’t registered? Email changed? Please complete the

voter profile form on the Unifor 2002 website:

http://www.unifor2002.org/Services-Departments/Elections/Update-Your-Voter-Profile

Please don’t delay. Electronic voting is fast, convenient and

secure.

In solidarity,

Manon Camiré

Unifor Local 2002 Election Committee Member

***********************************************************************************

March 30,  2020

A  Q and A will be released in the morning hopefully addressing some of your questions I was hoping to have it today but will not be ready until the morning. Fell free to send any queries through the email.

Take care

Ross

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March 30, 2020

Surplus Declared At AEROPLAN.

Hello everyone, 

The Company announced a surplus in the Aeroplan Call Centres. They are offering Leave of Absence 30,60,90 day options. Currently we are compiling a Q and A so please bring your questions through to the union office to have clarified. 

Thanks

Ross

Message from Jerry Dias: Unifor calls on Parliament to Prioritize Workers in any relief package

March 23, 2020 at 5:54 PM

Subject: Unifor calls on Parliament to Prioritize Workers in any relief package

Dear Member of Parliament,

I am writing to you today to ensure your attention is focused on workers’ needs in any financial aid package you consider for the air transportation industry during or after this time of crisis.

The health and economic impacts of COVID-19 are severe and becoming more substantial by the day. Workers in our industry face substantial short and long-term consequences as the efforts to contain the virus intensify around the world and air travel is significantly diminished or even suspended. This is due to government mandated travel restrictions that will reduce the transmission of the virus between countries.

The call for government investment in the air transportation industry began in earnest last week as airlines and airports started to reckon with the current circumstances and uncertain timing of a return to air travel.

Unfortunately, instead of looking to current government programs, such as work-sharing, or current best- practice including voluntary lay-off, vacation use and banked time pay-out, our airline industry moved directly to delivering thousands of lay-off notices and calls for bailouts.

As you consider a financial aid package for the air transportation industry, we implore you to keep workers needs in mind. Any financial aid package delivered to any industry, including air travel must be accompanied by strong, enforceable conditions that ensure financial aid is tied to maintaining income for current employees, creating employment, and not delivered into the hands of executives through bonuses.

Further, federal aid conditions must make plain that service and call centre activity remain in Canada.

At a minimum, conditions must ensure:

• Government has an equity stake in any enterprise that receives support.

• Employers receiving aid will guarantee employment during this time, options for training and professional development should be offered.

• Strict limits on executive compensation.

• Guarantees that service and call centre operations remain in Canada for the long-term.

Investments in capital equipment and machinery are linked to local economic development criteria, including domestic material content, labour content and local preferential hiring agreements (e.g. community benefit agreements). 

Any public stimulus program must void any conditions set by free trade and investment agreements that prohibit governments from procuring equipment and services that place Canadian firms ahead of others as governments are exempt from these clauses during states of emergency. We need to maximize the long-term value of government stimulus by ensuring as many Canadians benefit from it as possible.

Airline workers are on the front-lines of protecting the Country against the spread of COVID-19. Customer service agents have been made responsible for refusing entry to anyone who presents with symptoms of the virus – even as we know many people who have been infected do not show any symptoms at all. Customer service agents and flight attendants are touching bags and identification, they are serving meals and handling credit cards. Social distancing is an impossibility for these workers.

Operations at many airlines provide an essential service to northern communities. These airlines must continue to operate even as demand for their passenger services has significantly dropped. Any aid package must give specific consideration to these companies, ensuring they can continue to provide the wages and benefits provided for in collective agreements and employment contracts.

The impact of our response to COVID-19 and the economic fallout will likely exceed the long-term impact of the 2008-09 recession. During that crisis, government provided substantial investment into the air transportation industry. Shareholders and executives may have recovered their losses, but workers have not. Since 2008, average real wages in the industry have fallen by 7%, and average unit labour costs by 19% even as productivity increased substantially (+36%).

In addition to the items listed above, government must also make important improvements in the Employment System now in order to provide assistance to workers who have already experienced layoff. Changes include:

• Increase the EI income replacement amount to 80%.

• Waive the one-week waiting period for regular Employment Insurance benefits and temporarily eliminate the qualifying hours needed to access benefits

Our goal is to see the industry return to economic health and prosperity. That health and prosperity cannot be realized if workers continue to be left worse off while executives and shareholders increase their gains.

Politicians and policy makers are currently making decisions whose impact will be felt long into the future. Now is the time to turn our heads towards creating a more just and equitable future by ensuring workers are not cut off from the benefits of the important decisions being made. Air transportation workers across the country must be counted as partners that will return the industry to financial health and they want to ensure equal reward for their efforts.

Sincerely,

Jerry Dias,

National Unifor President 

March 23, 2020

Update,

As most of you are aware we have eliminated every 2nd desk in an effort to space you approximately 2 meters. We are currently moving Travel Ops to the old support section this will probably be completed hopefully by days end tomorrow. In turn this will free up extra desks to help with overflow on phones. The Company is also trying to re-fit a satellite office in the ops center to move more agents from the main office to hopefully thin our numbers even more. I have no new information about work from home and will advise when able.

There is a lot of chat about the potential outcome for us, at this point for us we need to continue social distancing, wash hands and work areas often and equally please be kind to one and other. Together we will get through this.

Take Care,

Ross.

Le message en français suit le texte en anglais

March 23, 2020

Local 2002 postpones 2020 Executive Board Elections and Triennial Convention

It is unprecedented the number of times we have all heard the word "unprecedented" used in the last month, but there is no other word to describe the events of the global pandemic and the consequences that Canada and the world are experiencing. We are seeing unimaginable actions taking place daily around the world and our Local is not immune.

On Friday, March 20, 2020, the Executive Board held an emergency conference call to discuss the many issues facing the Local as a result of the ongoing pandemic. In a series of unanimous decisions, the Executive Board has approved and delayed the following:

• Local 2002 Executive Board Elections

• Local 2002 Triennial Convention

• Local 2002 Elections at Convention

The Executive Board unanimously agreed that the election schedule and Convention planning could not continue at this time when so many of our members have received layoff notices and many more are also facing the same prospect. Province after province are declaring a state of emergency and our members' priority is to remain focused on their safety, health, and that of their loved ones.

UPDATE - 2020 EXECUTIVE BOARD ELECTIONS

• Elections for President, Secretary-Treasurer and Vice Presidents will occur in September 2020

• Elections for Trustee Chair, Board of Trustee, Constitution and Bylaw Committee, Local Election Committee and Regional Council Delegates will occur in September 2020

• As the current term is being extended for the (President, Secretary-Treasurer, and Vice Presidents), the subsequent term will be shortened to keep our triennial cycle intact, beginning in May 2023

• Elections for workplace representatives are scheduled for the fall of 2020 (currently no change)

INFORMATION FOR MEMBERS AND DELEGATES

• 2020 Convention Reports will be produced and distributed outlining the previous three years in accordance with our bylaws

• Convention and bylaw resolutions will be deferred to the Executive Board for review once the Board can hold meetings

• The Local’s plan to move to a new office site has been placed on hold

• All conferences, Councils, courses, membership meetings, etc. have been canceled until further notice.

Feb. 26 2020

No More Bullying!

Unifor Local 2002 recognizes Pink Shirt Day and supports the trailblazing work of youth who took collective action against bullying. Pink Shirt Day began in Berwick, Nova Scotia in 2007 when David Shepherd, Travis Price and a large group of students decided to defend their peer who was bullied for wearing a pink shirt. In a show of solidarity, they, and many students turned up to school the next day wearing pink shirts.

The theme this year’s Pink Shirt Day is “Lift each other up”; a simple but powerful message encouraging us to look beyond our differences and celebrate the things that make us unique.

On Wednesday, February 26, 2020, take a stand and be bold in Pink! Join the millions of people across Canada who will celebrate in pink to proclaim: BULLYING STOPS HERE!  We need to fight back against bullying not just on Pink Shirt Day, but all year.

So, take a stand and be allies in our workplace.  Share your stories and pictures with us on social media using tags #Unifor2002 + #PinkItForward. We will post them to recognize your commitment to a bully-free workplace 

Feb 19 2020

Hi everyone,

A couple updates about the upcoming shift.  Web tech will be open til 2100 pst with 3 or 4 lines til 2100. Phones shifts will now have some lines til 2200 pst . The phone lines will still close at 2100, this is to help clear out the queue. As communicated previously by the company, if you are wishing to bid in/out of a specialty dept. You will require to submit a shift preference form with priority or stating your intentions bidding in/out of the dept. Once Vacancy is filled you will not have an option to bid into another dept at bid day. The upcoming bid is NOT an open bid.

Erin

Feb 13, 2020

The Union Office will be closed Friday due to a Union meeting at Unifor in New west. Sorry for the inconvenience. Please forward you concerns by email and we will get back to you as soon as we can.

Take Care 

Ross

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Feb 11,2020

Quick note, many of you were wondering about your T4 slips. You will receive 2 this year One from Aimia that will be sent to you by mid March. The other one is already available from AC at HRconnex. 

Take Care

Ross

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Feb 5,2020

Hello Everyone, I just wanted to remind all the new shift preference form is now available. It includes the new Web Tech department and Travel OPS. If you have a desire to work in these sub areas you need to update your shift preference form. In addition if you wish to leave these areas you need to fill out these forms. The next bid is not open but anyone wanting to leave may by following this process.

Take Care,

Ross.

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January 30, 2020

Hello Everyone, the company has just confirmed the schedule will be extended until Mar.29 2020. The build will be in late February.

Thanks,

Ross.

January 9,2020.

Hello everyone quick update,

The Lump  sum Bonuses do contribute to the pension. The Company did overlook this when they paid these out yesterday. They will need to claw back the employee contributions which is approximately 575.00 on the 10,000.00. They will be communicating all of this to you shortly we did request gradual claw back and it will most likely be 100.00 per pay over 6 pays. The communication will have specific details.

 Best Regards,

Ross.

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December, 19 2019

Happy Holidays, from the Union Team, Our hope is that you all find some Peace this holiday season. We have just transitioned through a very trying period to a successful outcome we should all be proud of. We are positioned well now to face whatever comes our way.

Truly appreciate all the support we received,

Take Care,

Ross.

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Hey everyone I have just been informed December 17 your C1's will be loaded on your travel profiles.        Dec 11,2019

Cheers 

Ross.

October 23, 2018

iforVotes !!!

Come into the surf boardroom to learn more about the 2018 referendum on electoral reform and Proportional Representation in British Columbia. 

We are open for discussion and questions in the Surf boardroom:

Tuesday October 23: 1100-1500 

Friday October 26: 1100-1500 

Come in to learn and have a snack with Chelsea and her Team !!!

Thanks, 

Sabrina

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

October 17,2018.

Quick update, 

The Vacation Bid will be the week of November 19. If you are away please prepare a proxy and have someone bid for you.

The New schedule has been bid, your Shift Committee was determined to make some improvements over the last schedule. I would like to thank them for their attention to detail and the effort they put forward.

We need to remember that the Voc /Tm recording are simply that, recording. These should not be additional coaching's and the company should incorporate Voc scores with your monthly review. They will record 4 hours a month, 2 hours split by one week then 2 hours, they need to give you a min. of 24hours notice.

We are all patiently waiting for the Company to bring some news around the sale of business. We need this piece to allow us to negotiate the best deal for the employees of Aeroplan. It's been a long year, but we should have something soon so hang on.

Nov. 2nd is the retiree send off, hope to see you all there 43, 22 percent of our colleagues are moving on with the next chapter of their lives, again leaving a void in the office. It's difficult everytime to see our friends move on, but i am also happy for them.

Take Care,

Ross

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October 5, 2018 at 5:15 PM Message From Euila,

Dear Sisters and Brothers,

Thanksgiving is a holiday that brings us all together. It’s also a time to remind us to count our blessings and give thanks for the many people and experiences that enrich our lives. Last week, in Gander, Newfoundland & Labrador solidarity was front and centre as we stood on the picket line side by side to support our sisters and brothers from D-J Composites Local 597.

These members have been on the picket line for 92 weeks, the longest lockout in the province’s history. I’m proud that our National union and union members came from across Canada to support and raise awareness that this lockout was unjust and that 92 weeks is unacceptable for any worker to be on a picket line. 

The members of Local 597 reminds us that together and with our collective action we can fight for stronger labour laws that protect all workers in Canada. As a result of our solidarity rally in Gander, Newfoundland & Labrador, on October 3rd, 2018, D-J Composites consented to binding arbitration, which will eventually lead to a collective agreement and end the lockout.

Canadian Council – Halifax, Nova Scotia August 17-19,2018

On August 16th, 2018, Unifor celebrated five years of activism at the Canadian Council in Halifax. Unifor National President – Jerry Dias remarked how incredibly proud he was of all Unifor members and how we have left a mark in every region of the country. He also added that he was incredibly proud of the achievements made in advancing the labour movement, and since its inception in 2013, Unifor has been a leading advocate for workers rights, a fair NAFTA deal and stronger social programs including better health care.

Local 2002 Collective Bargaining Update:

The following units have ratified collective agreements at Flair Airlines, Swissport Quebec, and Toronto, and Hilton Hotel – Saint John, New Brunswick. I would like to say thank you to the Bargaining Committees for their hard work during negotiations and also to the members for participating in the ratification process.

Local 2002 Leadership and Educational (LEM) Meeting 

Approximately 110 union representatives from across the country will gather in Whistler, British Columbia from October 22-25, 2018, for the 2018 Leadership and Educational (LEM) Meeting. Attendees will include the Local 2002 Executive Board, Chair of the Board of Trustees, District Chairpersons, Bargaining Committee members, and staff of the Local and National. Attendees will participate in workshops and will have an opportunity for discussions with other representatives from across Canada.

Unifor 2002 Campaigns 

Our Local proudly works in solidarity with other groups to build equal and progressive workplaces. Below is a list of some of the campaigns we have championed in the last three months:

• September 5, 2018, Labour Day

• September 27th, 2018, Unifor National Donated $50,000 to the Canadian Red Cross to aid Ontario and Quebec residents in the recovery from destructive tornadoes.

• September 30th, 2018, Orange Shirt Day

Stay Connected

Please ensure that you have subscribed to Unifor 2002’s e-news service at www.unifor2002.org. 

Don’t forget to like and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

The success of our Local is not possible without our 13,000 plus members, committees, dedicated staff, and Executive Board members to carry our mission forward. Please know that your Local is working hard behind the scenes to ensure we bring fair and equitable agreements to all of our members. 

In closing, remember it is the spirit of solidarity that fuels a great union.

In Solidarity,

Euila Leonard

President – Unifor Local 2002 

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August 1, 2018

Update,

Hello Everyone,

A couple of things for you to know.

The Company has disclosed that to me today that they are extending this current schedule to October. They originally were concerned about Montreal vacancies due to the new TRP department but they have decided to move that scope to the web. I presented the Company with an offer to bring the new department to Vancouver and the Company declined.

They have disclosed that the Montreal office will close at 2400 to encompass all working hours. Their rationale was language requirement. They currently have 4 closing rotations. I have asked for them to review the requirement as many agents in Vancouver are working later than ever and most evenings they are offered RO. They will get back to me.

The Company is focusing on one new hire class in Montreal. They have no immediate plans to bring a class here.

The News from the AC offer to buy AE deadline in Thursday. We are hopefull to get some news and will report when we hear. I believe we have endured more stress than most should ever through this past year of uncertainty but remember we are survivors and need to keep the faith.

Will advise once we hear, Take Care

Ross.

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July 26, 2018 at 8:00 AM

It has been reported by Canadian media that Air Canada, along with The Toronto-Dominion Bank ("TD"), Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce ("CIBC"), and Visa Canada Corporation ("Visa"), launched a hostile takeover bid of AIMIA's loyalty program, Aeroplan. Unifor has confirmed that this is an offer in the form of a joint business venture to purchase the Aeroplan component of AIMIA’s business. This is not a hostile take over bid aimed at AIMIA.

The estimated $2.25 billion offer from the group has a deadline of August 2, 2018 for AIMIA to respond.

At this time, it is unknown if the offer will be accepted by AIMIA's Board of Directors. It is also unknown what impact a potential sale will have (if any) on Unifor members. In the interim, it is "business as usual".

When further details are confirmed, we will ensure that they are communicated. Please ensure that you have subscribed to Unifor 2002's e-news service at unifor2002.org. For further information please contact your Bargaining Committee Representative.

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July 17th, 2018

Re: Company Attendance Management Policy Briefings

Hi Everyone,

We understand many have more questions after the company gave out these briefings. If you have questions please come down to union office. 

Thank you

Your Union Team

Reminders 

Deadline July 27th

2018 Aeroplan Collective Bargaining Survey

You can come by the office to pick up the survey or download it from the above link.

Deadline July 31st

Health and Welfare Spending Benefit 

$200 for Full-time and $100 for Part-time

Claims must be received in the office of the plan administrator, Canadian Benefits by 12:00 NOON (EST) July 31st, 2018.

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June 28, 2018

Message From The Unifor President Jerry Dias.

To all members,

I am excited to tell you about the launch of Unifor’s ‘I Shop Canada’ campaign to promote the purchase of products manufactured in Canada with the goal of creating and maintaining good jobs.

I Shop Canada is about making a choice at the cash register to use our collective consumer purchasing power to aid workers in our communities and across the country.

This online awareness campaign is in response to the escalating trade war with the United States and the growing sentiment among Canadian consumers to support homegrown industries. I Shop Canada provides a social media platform for consumers from coast-to-coast to share information on their favourite made-in-Canada goods and services.

This initiative is designed to actively promote Unifor made products and hospitality services. I encourage all members and locals to join in the campaign to get word out on the quality items and services that you work hard to produce each day.

Here’s how you can participate:

1. Take a picture of your Canadian-made purchase, or if you manufacture a product take a photo with your co-workers!

2. Post the image on Twitter using the #IShopCanada hashtag

3. Share the image on the I Shop Canada Facebook page

If you are one of our many service or hospitality members or if you plan on vacationing or enjoying local activities in Canada this summer you can also share your experiences using the #IPlayCanada hashtag.

By choosing to shop or play Canada you are investing in good paying jobs while also providing a boost to the economy.

Want to tell your friends about the campaign? Visit the IShopCanada Facebookpage to add a frame to your profile picture to let your friends and family know that you support workers in Canada. On Twitter make sure to tag in @IShopCA and @UnifortheUnion so your posts can be easily shared. You can also email your pics to the communications department at IShopCanada@unifor.org

The campaign kicks off tomorrow, Thursday June 28 just ahead of the July 1 date for the imposition of Canadian counter-duties against the U.S. 

Together we can make a difference – one purchase at a time. Let’s get #IShopCanada trending by Canada Day.

In solidarity,

Jerry Dias

Natioanl President

*****************************************************

June 18,

Aeroplan Districts 104 & 404 

Upcoming Proposal Meetings and Surveys

Aeroplan Districts 104 and 404 members' current collective bargaining agreement will expire on November 14, 2018, and preparations for contract negotiations have begun.

The Bargaining Committee will be holding proposal meetings in early September. The purpose of these meetings is to solicit feedback from the Aeroplan membership on the issues that members would like to see negotiated in the next Collective Agreement.

As Unifor members you are an important part of the bargaining process. Your Bargaining Committee has developed a bargaining survey which will be circulated to the members to determine and prioritize the bargaining agenda. 

We encourage all members to complete the survey and submit the completed survey to their District Chairperson or your Bargaining Committee Representative on/or before July 27, 2018. Please click below for the Aeroplan Survey.

Your participation and input are key to obtaining a fair and equitable contract. 

Our fight is your fight, and we will continue to fight for equality as we build a stronger more relevant Union. Unifor is a Union for Everyone! 

Please ensure that you have subscribed to Unifor 2002’s e-news service at www.unifor2002.org

In solidarity,

Your Bargaining Committee

Jacky Lui

Ross McConkey

Vince De Sua

Stephen Lussier

Euila Leonard, Unifor Local 2002 President

Josée Genois, Assistant to the Local President

Leslie Dias, Unifor National Representative

Click here for survey:

http://www.unifor2002.org/resources/UNF/PDF/PDFs%202018/2018_06_15_Aeroplan_Barg_Survey_Eng.pdf

http://www.unifor2002.org/resources/UNF/PDF/PDFs%202018/2018_06_15_Aeroplan_Barg_Survey_FRE.pdf

June 13 2018,

Hello everyone,

I wanted to advise you again about your rights with respect to coaching. Years ago we sat down with the Company and agreed upon terms that were acceptable with the union for Monitoring and Measurement in conjunction with coaching. It was agreed that they need to pre-advise us that when they were capturing our calls they wished to discuss with us. They need to respect our wishes that certain periods would work better for us and work with us to guarantee the stress that can arise from this process is kept to the minimum. Also that the two coaching must be separated by 2 weeks unless the employee gave consent to do something else. We also agreed upon frequency, once a month if you are meeting the kpi's or twice a month if not. We discussed that if you were uncomfortable listening to your recorded calls you had the option of sitting side by side with your TM. The duration for these meetings were set for 60 minutes.

The only change that we have acknowledged since the agreement was inked has been voice of the customer (VOC). Again you need to be pre- advised. They do this by scheduling it in total view.

Voice of the customer is to be used in your coachings and not result in additional meetings with your TM. In recent months the above message seems to have grown legs and the Company has continued to try to ramp up with additional meetings. We have never agreed to this. If you have experienced anything other that what we agreed to from the original agreement.You need to report this to the Union so we can take appropriate actions.

Take Care,

Ross

April 25 2019

Hello Everyone,

I would like to invite anyone who missed the meeting to come by the office to discuss the agenda. Many things we discussed we would not publish as they are strategy's for the up and coming bargaining. The Meeting was quite positive.

We will be getting some news most likely this Friday from AC regarding the welcome to AC (on board) package and travel passes. Please watch for this information as there will be a check list for you.

With all the recent changes coming it's going to be an interesting time for us. We are committed to change the culture that has been bestowed upon us from the previous Company. I believe we will have some success, but we are still waiting to see the direction the new employer is seeking. 

If you have any questions drop by or send us a note, 

Regards

Ross.

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Apr 23 2019

Hi everyone,

Today proposal meetings are at the Fairmont Airport, 5th floor, in the FINCH ROOM. 1100-1300 AND 1400-1600. The company has committed to grant RO on a call volume basis. Hope too see everyone here.

Your union team

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June 06 2018       

Hi Everyone,

Welcome to the new and improved site, we believe we have addressed any privacy concerns, you will no longer need closed access and can view this from your desktop at work. Any questions, please come down to the union office or send us an email. 

Your Union Team 

May 17 2018*************************************************************************************

UMHQ update May 14-17,

Hello Everybody, Jacky and I just returned from Montreal this week and below are the highlights from the meeting,

We spoke on the Below,

VSP'S we asked and the Company responded you can apply immediately, Review the Company bulletin that should be forthcoming today. The bulletin should have a link that takes you to the application form. The bulletin also will highlight key dates. There will be info sessions in YVR July 16. application deadline August 5th. confirmed August 10th. last day worked October 31st. The issue around deffer the lump sum to  January is not closed, the Company told us it will be a last minute decision and people should plan ahead as if they were not getting it and when or if they announce it they will accommodate.

We asked about hiring. The Company said they have the desire to hire but they can not get approval at this time from the executive.

As most have you know they will be creating an eligible list for leads. We will be part of this process as always which consists of a interview and exam.

We spoke about coaching and the concerns that this brings the membership. We reminded this employer that we have an agreement that allows two coachings per month if not meeting the kpi's. The Choice is yours side by side or in the office listening to recorded calls. Some TM'S have hinted as of recent that you do not get to make that choice. Please let us know if you are affected by that. We agreed to meet again with the company at a future date to discuss monitoring and measurement.

I asked again about new work and tried to get the Company to provide dates when this work would come to yvr they could not commit to a date but said the plan is to role it out in both offices.

The Company submitted the below agenda,

They presented a business update, although it is quieter we are answering more calls than we answered last year. They pointed out some days the web is at 90 percent volumes, and said that it was at capacity.

The Company is preparing to role out a new attendance policy/program. The Union met previously to discuss this and brought forward some concerns. The Company was able to agree on some issues. 

We discussed potential Bargaining dates in October, So the process will begin shortly. We will advise and then distribute surveys.

Well in a nut shell that's all for now.

As you we share the concerns as this Company restructures and many changes appear weekly. 

We are asking the right questions as Aeroplan positions itself and will report to you when we have accurate vetted information.

Take Care,

Ross

*******   Union Membership Meeting   *******

26 April

The Union Boardroom (down the hall from the Union Office)

From 11:30 to 16:30

See you there.

**********************************************************************

April 23, 2018

What is the National Day of Mourning?

The National Day of Mourning or Workers’ Mourning Day is observed in Canada on April 28. It honours workers who have been killed, injured or suffered illness due to workplace related hazards and incidents. The observance began in 1984 and it was officially declared an annual day of remembrance the following year by the Canadian Labour Congress. In 1991 the day became a national observance when the Workers Mourning Day Act was passed, making April 28, an official Workers' Mourning Day. Every year since, unions, labour councils, families and community partners gather by the thousands to 'mourn the deceased’. What began through the efforts of Canada's labour movement is now observed in more than 80 countries.

On April 28th, the majority of us will be at our place of employment, going about our day and focusing on the tasks which make up our regular work day. For many of us, this will be an ordinary day just like any other filled with routines, responsibilities and enjoyment. But for others, it may not be so ordinary. All too often we are reminded just how fragile our work-life balance can be when an occupational accident affects a colleague, a friend, family member or even our own life. Many of us never think to ask; shouldn’t work be safe?

This year will mark the 34th anniversary of the National Day of Mourning. Over the years, members of our Unifor Locals – including our members at Local 2002 – have been affected by the loss of fellow sisters and brothers who have lost their lives while in the workplace. No one can escape the emotional and often devastating impact that comes from a workplace trauma. The National Day of Mourning is not only a day to reflect and remember those individuals who have lost their lives, but it is also a time to renew the commitment to improving health and safety in the workplace; to prevent further deaths, injuries and sicknesses from work.

On April 28, the Canadian flag on Parliament Hill will fly at half-mast. Workers will light candles, don ribbons and black armbands and observe a moment of silence at 11:00 am. Businesses are asked to participate by declaring April 28 a Day of Mourning and to strive to prevent workplace deaths, illnesses and injuries.

Let's remember those who have lost their lives and demand safer workplaces for all working people.

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Mar 26 2018

TO: Local 2002 members Aeroplan D104 

FROM: Unifor Local 2002 Elections Committee Chairperson 

DATE: March 26, 2018 Unifor 2002 has posted the writ of election for the position of Bargaining Committee Member. The term of office is three (3) years and begins on the first day of the month following the election. Nominations close April 9, 2018. A minimum of seven days’ notice will be given for the dates of the election if the local office receives more nomination forms than positions available. Members will vote by electronic balloting followed by workplace balloting. All voting times will be posted in the workplace. You’re all set to vote in the next election if in the last 12 months:  You’ve already voted electronically  You’ve registered to vote electronically In order to vote electronically — from anywhere you can get an internet connection — you must have an updated voter profile. Haven’t registered? Email changed? 

Please complete the voter profile form on the Unifor 2002 website: 

Update Voting Profile click here

Please don’t delay. 

Electronic voting is fast, convenient and secure. 

In solidarity, 

Sharon Low Unifor Local 2002 Elections Committee Chairperson 

**********************************************************************************************

Mar 26 2018

TO: Local 2002 members Aeroplan D104 

FROM: Unifor Local 2002 Elections Committee Chairperson 

DATE: March 26, 2018 Unifor 2002 has posted the writ of election for the position of Bargaining Committee Member. The term of office is three (3) years and begins on the first day of the month following the election. Nominations close April 9, 2018. A minimum of seven days’ notice will be given for the dates of the election if the local office receives more nomination forms than positions available. Members will vote by electronic balloting followed by workplace balloting. All voting times will be posted in the workplace. You’re all set to vote in the next election if in the last 12 months:  You’ve already voted electronically  You’ve registered to vote electronically In order to vote electronically — from anywhere you can get an internet connection — you must have an updated voter profile. Haven’t registered? Email changed? 

Please complete the voter profile form on the Unifor 2002 website: 

Update Voting Profile click here

Please don’t delay. 

Electronic voting is fast, convenient and secure. 

In solidarity, 

Sharon Low Unifor Local 2002 Elections Committee Chairperson 

Message from Jerry Dias, April 10, 2018

We have a once in a generation opportunity to fix fundamental flaws with NAFTA, but that opportunity is about to be squandered.

After spending months in negotiations, the Canadian government is considering signing on to an "Agreement in Principle" with the American and Mexican governments, which would commit us to a deal without knowing the specifics.

We can't let this happen. Add your voice to show Justin Trudeau and Chrystia Freeland that they must not sign another bad trade deal without even knowing what's in it.

Sign up now to send a united message. This deal could come as early as Friday, April 13.

Add your name and send the link to your friends.

A Better NAFTA must mean reforming NAFTA with stronger labour rules, environmental standards, the elimination of investor-privileges in Chapter 11, new trade rules designed to strengthen the auto industry, the protection of social services, the preservation of supply management and a greater balance in trade and investment and a fair share of the benefits for workers in each country, among other reforms.

Canada needs to hang tough on renegotiating a NAFTA deal that works for working people. Will you support working people and tell Justin Trudeau and Chrystia Freeland not to rush to accept a lousy deal?

In solidarity,

Jerry Dias

National President

***********************************************************************************

Message from Unifor President Jerry Dias

An important message to all Unifor members on NAFTA renegotiation

For the past eight months, Canada, Mexico and the United States have undertaken to re-negotiate the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) – a trade deal that has not served the interests of working people. I am proud of the role that our union has played in driving an agenda to fix the fundamental flaws with NAFTA.

According to various media reports, there is a possibility that a NAFTA ‘Agreement in Principle’ may be announced as early as this week. If so, this announcement would be made without any resolution to many widely-cited (and controversial) proposals which have been tabled. It is unclear what form this “agreement” will take. But it is clear that the timelines for this announcement are being driven by political forces; not with any care or concern to properly fix a trade treaty that has enabled a great deal of economic and social inequity throughout the continent.

Unifor has played an active role in every round of NAFTA negotiations. From the onset of talks, our union has been a key stakeholder, and I have served as an informal advisor to the Canadian negotiating team. Our union has taken the opportunity to raise concerns clearly and consistently with government officials, civil society partners and through the media.

We believe that NAFTA doesn’t work unless it works for all workers.

For nearly 25 years, workers have suffered the consequences of a misalignment in the priorities of globalization, driven by one-sided trade rules. As corporations profited, working standards plummeted. In Mexico, specifically, workers are by far worse off today than they were before NAFTA was signed. To read more about the demands of Mexican workers click here.

It is Unifor’s view that Canada should feel no pressure to sign on to this proposed Agreement in Principle, which is essentially a non-agreement. In fact, we would strongly encourage that the Canadian government sign nothing at all.

This proposed deal appears to be silent on the issue of labour rights, environmental protections and other key social standards. There is no indication yet that a new NAFTA will eliminate special status for investors to sue governments in private tribunals. Also, it is not clear if Canada’s supply management system for dairy and poultry will remain intact or if proposed new auto rules will serve to rebalance trade across the continent.

This Agreement in Principle mainly serves the political interests of the American and Mexican governments, both of whom are facing key ministerial and congressional elections this year, not the tens of millions of workers who have been disadvantaged by NAFTA.

Canada should not give in to political pressure. Nor should Canada give the U.S. and Mexico a free pass.

Canadian workers are feeling the negative effects of U.S.-led trade duties in softwood lumber and paper industries, with many mills being threatened with closure. The U.S. continues to threaten Canada will unfair steel and aluminum tariffs.

In Mexico, legislators are expected to vote this week on a series of labour law reforms that would worsen standards, entrench the role of “ghost” unions and further erode access to free, independent collective bargaining. The weakening of labour standards is Mexico is an affront to us all.

Unifor has been a fierce critic of NAFTA, and so-called “free trade” agreements like it. The fate of NAFTA rests on the ability of governments to re-imagine how trade deals are done: to raise social standards and to elevate work standards. Unifor will oppose any agreement that lacks significant ambition and meaningful change.

Unifor will continue to monitor talks, and I will continue to update members as new information surfaces. Please join me in sending a strong and united message to the federal government to say - don’t waste a generational opportunity here and rush to agree to a deal. We need to get this right.

In solidarity,

Jerry Dias.

****************************************************************************************************

March 14, 2018

Hello Everyone,

I just wanted to give out a quick shout. Things seem to be gathering momentum with respect to the direction the Company is taking us. I commend you all for not buying in to the countless stories being told on the shop floor. There has been so much speculation and its such a difficult time to work under the shadow of these circumstances. I am committed to bring forward information as soon as we receive it. I wanted to assure you that we have not been sitting idle, we are asking the questions when we need to and seeking clarification.You will get vetted factual information from your Union Office.

You have experienced a year like no other and the near future does not appear to look any different. The Company continues to drive their performance goals directly at you and in some cases completely blind to the environment they provide for you to work in. System outages, hardware broken untold amounts of concern from our customers yet somehow all that matters are the metrics that they use to govern us. Please work smart, use reason and service our customers like you always have.

Unbelievable!!!!!!

The Company continues to barge ahead with attendance meetings and many letters have been handed out. There seems to be no exceptions and your relationships you have developed with your TM's no longer matter if you are in the zone you will get a meeting.We do have a meeting on the 21st of March to discuss the attendance process and the inconsistencies we are discovering on these letters. So please report any conversations or experiences that you come across as threatening to your Union. We will grieve what we need to.

As our situation excels the bargaining committee will be meeting to discuss how best to protect all employees and with bargaining around the corner as our contract expires in November we will be prepared to face off to protect you.

Please continue to bring your concerns and questions through to the Union Office.

Take Care,

Ross.

******************************************************************************************************

March 8, 2017

Happy International Women's Day!

Today we celebrate the social, economic, cultural & political achievements of women. It's a day to raise awareness and highlight women's equality and gender parity gains. We can keep this momentum going by raising our voices, joining the conversation, supporting each other , sharing the workload, educating the next generation, knowing your rights and donating to a women's cause.

Enjoy your day!

In Sisterhood,

Erin Draper

Women's Advocate

Message From Jerry Dias,

**********************************************************************************

Statement on U.S. tariffs to aluminum and steel and threats to good jobs and Canada’s economy

I write today in support of the thousands of Unifor members working in the steel and aluminum sectors,  including 1,000 at Rio Tinto in British Columbia and 3,000 aluminum workers in Quebec, our 40,000 auto sector members and all the workers across Canada who depend on these good union jobs and industries for their livelihood.

The American government has announced that it will impose steep tariffs on the import of steel and aluminum into the U.S. but has yet to indicate if Canada will receive an exemption or be hit by these punishing duties. 

Make no mistake, if America imposes duties on steel and aluminum and Canada doesn’t walk away from  NAFTA immediately then we will no longer be negotiating, we’ll be capitulating to Trump.

The proposed tariffs on steel and aluminum will have a devastating effect on jobs in several key industries, local regions across Canada and it will also directly impact the cost of items from cars to canned food. Ontario is a major supplier of steel and automobiles and Quebec a key supplier of aluminum, with Canada as the largest exporter of both to the States. 

Unifor is calling on the federal government to take immediate action to ensure that Canada is not subject to these punitive tariffs. 

Our union remains committed to fight against the implementation of these tariffs or any other unjust measures designed to pit worker against worker. 

Today I am with Quebec Director Renaud Gagné in Mexico City where Round 7 of NAFTA talks are currently underway. Together we will bring the message that if Canada fails to obtain an exemption from punitive tariffs   on steel and aluminum exports to U.S. then the Canadian government has no choice but to withdraw from NAFTA renegotiations.

You can read Unifor’s full media release on the tariff threat here. Please see the attached letter sent to      Richard Trumka, President of the AFL–CIO.

For more information visit unifor.org/peoplestrade.

In solidarity,

Jerry Dias - National President

Feb 26 2018

******************  Phone to the Union Office ***********************************************

Hello Everyone, Our phone is down in the office since last week please email your concerns or pop by. The Company assured us they are working on getting it repaired.

Thanks 

Ross.

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Call to Action: Pink Shirt Day 2018 - Prevention of Workplace Bullying

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Feb. 16, 2018

50-50 Draw Winner!

The 50-50 draw for Betty Staughton raised $500. Heather drew the winning ticket and the winner was Joanne Laganniere. Joanne very generously donated her $250 back to Betty. The proceeds are being delivered to Betty today. Thank you to everyone who contributed!

February 12, 2018

Hello Everyone here is a summary from the UMHQ last week.

The Company presented a business update,

They spoke about KPI'S and by all accounts the stats are trending the way they want.

They announced TopSpot it will be replacing Tangerine Portal. We were told it will not require training and the information should be seem less.

The Company spoke about the high levels of absence.

The Union presented the following items,

We spoke about the RTA at the console and the walk ups you experience. We ask them to review this process as it adds stress to you and no common sense seems to ever be applied.

We brought up the LOD'S and LOE'S and in a previous meeting we had agreed that these letters should not be issued until a threshold of 150 hours had been reached. We pointed out the letters that have already been handed out and asked to have them rescinded, the Company has not given us their final position with that.

We spoke briefly about calling agents at home requesting medical notes. The Company said they are not changing the practice we all know, not calling at all unless faced with a valid reason.

We brought up the discussion around all the system issues you face everyday. The Company said they are still updating RES and are aware of this.

We spoke in great detail around employee disengagement. We pointed out how this effects everyone working for this Company. The push for performance, the culture they have created and the lack of trust this employer affords us. Couple that with the grey cloud of uncertainty from the AC/AE divorce its no wonder the attendance issues exist. We told the Company the Lack of any information about the future is tearing us apart and that all we hear is news from outside the organization, nothing from the internal Company.

We reminded the Company about the VSP'S and the void that will leave from these colleagues leaving. We stressed our concerns that there are no new hire classes in the for seen future in Vancouver and that they need to start hiring sooner than leaving too late.

We spoke about all new work going to the Montreal operation and that the Company must consider Vancouver when making decisions around new work. We stressed that options must be part of both offices to create variety and give the agents choices.

We brought the Lou 17 issue and was unable to get an agreement at the UMHQ but will continue to discuss after the meeting. I will let all LOU's know when we reach a conclusion. I have concerns the Company wants to cherry pick who can and cannot do this work. Not acceptable to the union.

We asked again for the Company to inform us around the VSP. They also responded around that taking your package in 2019 to avoid paying taxes in 2018. They were unable to confirm this but did say that they will revisit this after more information is collected.

It was a lengthy agenda but the meeting concluded at 1200 noon. We were able to squeeze all our issues in.

There are two important meetings happening near the end of the month, The Company will have a town hall where they will be giving us some substance around the direction they are going. They also said that the union employees will not be able to attend but they will be recording this town hall and will have meetings to play it in both offices. 

Thanks for the ongoing support,

Ross. 

*********************************************************************************************

February 01,2018

Important to All Lou.17

The company has decided in recent weeks to have you all re-apply after some of you have been doing this role with great success for the past 3-4 collective agreements. They have  called on you over and over and you have performed this role with mutual benefit and they have never raised concerns to any noticeable degree. The company continues to refer back to a date in 2011 where they made the Montreal office re-apply. Our history is quite different we have never had to re-apply in the past decade. The Company continue to quote rhetoric about it being necessary do to significant changes. We have had no problems adapting to all these changes and continues to perform these roles over the years. The union can only draw that they would be hoping some may not re-apply as the want to mentor their own group in addition they emphasis that your stats have to be in order and you need your blessing from your TM. We all know that the stats have things that are not achievable to many like 100 percent conformance, that could be perfect but if you take that last bathroom break you no longer could be considered for the Lou17 program. The language in the collective states they need to have bi-lateral agreement for the Lou17 program to be in place but quite frankly it may be tough to get there if this employer does not bring something applicable and reasonable to the table. We will present our concerns next week in Montreal at the UMHQ. Please do not discuss with the Company until that larger conversation happens.

Take Care 

Ross   

**************************************************************************************************

Januuary 30, 2018

Hello Everyone, our Dear colleague Betty Staughton was hit by a Motor Vehicle 2 weeks ago and although she is in stable condition we believe she has a long path ahead for complete recovery. 

We would like to encourage all to help raise some funds to help with all her expenses through her recovery. The social committee is having a fifty fifty draw to kick off this effort.

Thanks to all.

Ross.

Jan 28 2018

*********************** SHIFT UPDATE*********************************************************

The schedule will be in affect March 4th and run until April 28th. We will most likely sit to build the shifts the week of Feb 04 and Bid the 13/14 of Feb. That's what we have for now if it changes we will revise. Our Umhq has been tentatively moved to the 08 of Feb. We are pleased to have it earlier as we have a very full agenda.

Take Care,

Ross

**************************************************************************************************

January 2nd. 2018

HAPPY NEW YEAR Everyone,

We are leaving 2017 behind us which had proven to be a very stressful year with all the uncertainty. 2018 will continue to be challenging, I'm sure. We will see 51 agents depart on VSP from both offices. We will also enter bargaining in the fall. I also believe that this bargaining will shape how we look and move forward in the future. We will continue to push the agenda to serve the best interests of the Union Employees at Aeroplan.

A couple of things with respect to Forfeit of your lunch breaks for OT, they have the right to offer this to you as it does not violate the agreement or labour law, but please remember it is volunteer only,  you only gain 20 minutes of straight time by accepting this. The Union believes you should take the bargained  paid lunch break. I also advised the Company that the agents working through the holidays need that rest period to combat fatigue from the busy call volumes and asked them to offer regular OT. The Company's response was there was no budgetary funds left to offer OT in 2017. 

Please continue to take care of your health many of our colleagues were battling some form of illness through the holidays. If you are ill please do not feel pressured by this employer to come in to work. take the time you need to feel well.

I appreciate all the support,

Ross.

**************************************************************************************************

Dec. 21, 2017

Basket Raffle Winner!

The winner of the basket raffle is Adrian Dehek. Thank you to everyone who contributed to the raffle! We have raised $235.00. All proceeds will go to D.E.W.C

Erin

Women's Advocate

****************************************************************************************************

Dec 19 2017

It is sad to announce the passing of our colleague Felly Chua. Our thoughts and condolences are with her family. Her service will be on Jan 04th 2018 at the Peace Portal Alliance Church at 1130 and Burial will be at Victory Park Cemetery at 1430.

****************************************************************************************************

December 15 2017

Thank you for all the donations for DEWC. We had a great haul this year! The car was full of gifts to give to women and children. We even had $195.00 in gift cards to donate.  We are still running the basket raffle until Dec. 21. The basket is out for viewing in the leads department where you can also purchase tickets. Tickets are $1 each and it's self serve.  All proceeds from the raffle will also go to DEWC.  Thanks for all your support!

Erin

Women's Advocate

December 14 2017

Hi Everyone,

Just a reminder  Fundraiser for DEWC Erin will drop off tomorow, Friday 15 December. They are in need of preteen and teen gifts. Your donations are greatly appreciated. 

Erin

********************************************************************************************

December 7,2017

UMHQ summary,

Hello Everyone, 

Jacky and I attended the UMHQ this week in Montreal below are the highlights from our discussions,

The Company presented a business roll down to the committee. They communicated that they feel the agents are placed on schedules now that support the business to overall bring the wait  times to low 4% from over 9% from last year. 

They communicated a desire to role out a Multi Channel Department, first starting with 10 on a pilot in Montreal then expanding to Vancouver once the pilot process is over. They will have a qualifying process and have agreed to work with the union to determine how that will look. Multi Channel will really embrace the whole social media scope and include things like live chat. The Company believes this will be the future for call center work.

We spoke briefly about partnerships the company is aware that certain partners are not actively pushing the AE products but although they are concerned they said their agreements with two major partners expire in 2024 and the other in 2018.

The Union produced many topics for discussion,

We talk about the break down of communication, The company should include and invite Unionized employees in town halls and high level meetings.  We talked about how we are receiving pertinent information late or none at all. The Company acknowledged that they will strive to a  better job. 

We asked for more information around the VSP. The Company agreed although it was still to early to announce specific dates, the would look at a Q and A in the near future.

We talked about the daily system errors you encounter and how that is affecting how you do your jobs.

We brought up the payroll errors that we have seen a 5 fold increase in. The company was aware and pointed out it affected all employees union and management. They equated it to the change from epost to inview. We encourage all to check your pay for the next little while and report any discrepancies to Ceridien and Union to get them fixed as they occur. 

We brought up some of the more recent changes that have occurred the huddles around 22day work around and what does that actually mean. The Company is in the midst of putting out a communication of whys whens the agents should use this . We asked for broader access for internet so that we can open certain links and perhaps sites to assist us in doing our jobs.

We mentioned that there new stat process makes very little sense to the employees and that certain conversations with the TMs cause undue stress.

Overall we had some good discussions,

Take Care,

Ross.

************************************************************************************************

Happy Holidays

*********************************************************************************************

November 27 2017,

Please join us on December 11 2017 for our holiday open house,

It will be from 1030 am to 1630 pm in the Union board room near the Union Office.

We will have Samosa's and Refreshments available.

See you there,

Ross and the Union Team.

Winter Jan 2018 Shift Bid and Times             

Important update:

There has been a slight change to the Part Time Fixed and Part Time Relief schedule that was posted on the Portal.  The line # P011 OFF (Sun) 1600-2000 (Mon-Fri) OFF (Sat) has now been changed to a Relief Line instead.  The Portal message will be changed shortly.  In the meantime I have attached a copy of the new schedules for your reference.  click here to see link

There has been some slight changes to the Leads Schedule.The following lines have been amended:

Click here to see link

Leads 03

o   Was: OFF (Sun) 0700-1500 (Mon-Fri) OFF (Sat)

o   Now: OFF (Sun) 0700-1700 (Mon-Thurs) OFF (Fri & Sat)

 Leads 11

o   Was:  OFF (Sun) 0900-1700 (Mon-Fri) OFF (Sat)

o   Now: OFF (Sun) 0900-1700 (Mon-Thur) 0700-1500 (Fri) OFF (Sat)

Your Union Team

***************************************************************************

    Dec.6 National Day of Remembrance and Action On Violence Against Women

28 years ago on this day, 14 women were massacred at Ecole Polytechnique simply for being women. Please show your commitment towards ending violence against women and girls by wearing a white ribbon and/or a Unifor Pin and taking a moment of silence to commemorate those that have died from gender violence. 

Please see Erin for a pin or ribbon.

Thanks,

Erin

Women's Advocate

Annual Christmas Fundraiser for DEWC

Give a gift where needed most – support the Downtown Eastside Women’s Centre this Christmas!

Donation wishlist: 

  (Please ensure all items are new and unwrapped)

-Children's books and toys

-Gift certificates for teens (ie. Cineplex or itunes)

-Warm gloves and mittens

-Toiletries

-Make up

- PJ's/slippers/robes/blankets

-Scarves, hats, socks

Thank you very much for your support. Deadline for donation drop off is Thursday Dec. 14. Please bring your items to the union office.

Erin,

Women's Advocate 

§  

Happy Holidays

*********************************************************************************************

November 27 2017,

Please join us on December 11 2017 for our holiday open house,

It will be from 1030 am to 1630 pm in the Union board room near the Union Office.

We will have Samosa's and Refreshments available.

See you there,

Ross and the Union Team.

************************************************************************************************

Nov 21 2017

We are deeply saddened to hear the passing of Ross's Mother Shari. Our condolences and sympathy goes out to the McConkey Family. 

"Life is eternal, and love is immortal, and death is only a horizon; and a horizon is nothing save the limit of our sight." - Rossiter Worthington Raymond

your Union Team

****************************************************************************************

November 16/2017                              Quick update

Hello Everyone,

The Shift will be built next week for the January schedule. You will most likely be bidding on Dec 7/8. As always please have your shift preferences up to date with the company. The Vacation bid will start the week of the 27th of November. The selection for Holiday stats will be available Monday the 20th selection period will be one week. If you haven't had the chance to see the bulletin about VSP's yet it more or less just states that you need not do anything  in December and that a future communication will be forth coming on what you need to do to apply. We have a UMHQ in December will post a summary after those meetings. If you have concerns please come see us.

Take Care,

Ross

***************************************************************************************************

Hello everyone, Please take time Novemeber 11th at 11:11 for 1 minute of silence to respect the fallen. The men and women who paid the ultimate sacrifice for our basic freedoms.

Your Union team.

*****************************************************************************************************************************

November 2 2017 Union office coverage 03 November....

Hello Everyone,

Friday November 3 there will be no coverage in the Union office. All reps are away on Vacation or attending other union business this day. Please forward your concerns through to the email I will be monitoring it through out tomorrow and through the week end.

Thanks,

Ross.

**************************************************************************************************************************

Oct 25 2017

We are truly sorry to hear of the loss of Larry Miller's Father. Our condolences goes out to Larry and his Family.

*****************************************************************************************************************

Oct 12 2017

Just a heads up, the company has approached the Vancouver Union team and wanted us to waive the 14day relief day's off adjustment clause on an exception due to schedules released are less then 14 days. We responded that it not possible, however they are welcome to solicit on a volunteer basis.

Thanks

Your union team.

******************************************************************************************************************

Oct 12 2017

Hello Everyone,

I need to clarify, there is rumor that an agent is being disciplined over kpi (stats).Although I refuse to comment on details you do deserve to hear the truth regarding this. The issue has existed for some time now the union has always supported this employee. What you hear in the lunch room is only scratching the surface. Rest assured as in the past as we move to the future you will never be disciplined on KPI stats. This story continues to surface and continues to cause division among your colleagues. At this time we need to work together not continue to throw mud at each other and prepare for the next three years. If you have concerns from what you hear on the floor come to your union office and we will clarify, in other words please do not listen to misguided information it is designed to undermine your elected union office.

I appreciate your ongoing support,

Ross

******************************************************************************************************

Oct 04 2017

We are truly sorry to hear of the loss of Tom Ward's Mother. Funeral Service will be held on Oct 11 2017

The Service will be at St Joseph The Worker on Williams rd. in Richmond.

Ross

*********************      OPEN HOUSE     *************************************************************************

Join Us October 5, for an open house from 1100- 1300 AND 1400- 1600 in the Board Room near the Union Office.

Bring your questions and concerns forward. The recent UMHQ and VSP delays are some of the topics we will address.

Thanks for all your support,

Ross and the Union Team.

***************************************************************************************************

Sept 29, 2017

Election | Local 2002 members Aeroplan D104 

FROM: District Elections Committee Chairperson 

SUBJECT: Election for the following position: District Chairperson Vice-Chairperson 

DATE: September 29, 2017 The District Election Committee is pleased to announce the following election results:

Candidate:

District Chairperson Candidat : Président(e) de district # votes | # de votes 

Ross McConkey – ELECTED | ÉLU 146 

Shannon Rusnick 75 

Spoiled ballots cast Bulletins de vote annulés 4 

Total ballots cast Bulletins de vote déposés 225 

Candidate: 

Vice-Chairperson Candidat : Vice-président(e) de district # votes | # de votes 

Jacky Lui – ELECTED | ÉLU 164 

Luis Garcia-Mendez – ELECTED | ÉLU 125

Erin Draper – ELECTED | ÉLU 115

Sabrina Di Stefano – ELECTED | ÉLU 96 

Francisco Ferrari – ELECTED | ÉLU 88 

Melanie Hardy 84

Nancy Eyton-Jones 79

Trish Levesque 78 

Simon Lau 64

Birgit Janssen 44

Marijana Krilic 43 

Ethelyn David 21 

Spoiled ballots cast Bulletins de vote annulés 4 

Total ballots cast Bulletins de vote déposés 221

*************************************************************************************************************

Sept 28, 2017

Hello Everyone, 

Interesting UMHQ. unfortunately the Company had some news that will affect some of you that were planning an April departure VSP. Although the Company can not rescind The negotiated 51 VSP'S for 2018, They are delaying the departures till the fourth quarter. We understand that many of you have made plans around the April departure date and share your disappointment. We have asked the Company to re-open BMT so that anyone that chose not to partake to have the opportunity.

The Company also announced for BMT the will only allow whats in the contract for 2018. They state it is due to the lack of progress in recruitment they need more staff. We brought up the many issues around how you are being treated by management in the current work environment, although they claimed that your concerns were not their focus we assured them that you are living it daily and our wish for this treatment to stop immediately.The company provided a business update and showed us slides that things were progressing in the direction they wanted. 

They announced that a pilot for social media will commence next month in Montreal and once it evolves it will be fully rolled out to phone agents in both offices, This work will consist of chat, facebook, emails etc. 

We proceeded to have the C-SAT step 2 grievance and presented our position, not having a clear agreement we left it in abeyance to have further dialogue.

We spoke to the Duty to Accommodate form and that we need a proper form for this very important process. We also talked about having the ability to add new drugs to the list, we have struggled in the past getting the plan to cover some prescriptions and see a need to have a clear process in place. 

I am planning to have an Open House on Thursday and I encourage you to come by and bring your questions by I'm sure many of you have query's around the VSP. and our situation beyond 2020.

Thanks for all the support,

Ross

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Sep 24, 2017

Hi Everyone,

Our bargaining committee will be meeting in Montreal this week for UMHQ. We will be bringing your concerns to the table. Hopefully we will also have further updates to bring back to everyone. 

Ross and Jacky

*******************************************************************************************************************

Sept. 22, 2017

Hi Folks,

The shifts will not be out today as there as been a delay. Please see portal for updates on when the shifts will be out and when the bid will be.

Sept 20,2017

Hello Everyone, 

The big announcement from Air Canada has come and gone, I as I'm sure you were disappointed that it didn't provide us with more clarity. One things for sure it supports that AC is venturing off on their own from Aeroplan. It spoke to they are suiting for a financial Credit Card partner, they are migrating to a new Computer reservations system and that they project in the first 15 years they will realize an estimated income of 2.5 billion.

It really points out that our work is just beginning. Negotiating Job Security has to be at the forefront. We will be having our UMHQ the week of the 25th and will be having some discussion around this whole piece so stay tuned.

Take Care,

Ross.

**************************************************************************************************************************

September 14, 2017 at 11:00 AM

Yesterday Unifor 2002 issued a statement regarding the 2017 Unifor 2002 District Elections. Errors were made in this statement and we would like to take this time to re-release the document in its entirety.

Message from the President

Greetings,

I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate the nominees of this year’s Unifor 2002 District elections. We had a record number of candidates who put forward their nominations. Thank you to everyone who submitted nominations and an enormous salute to the nominees for accepting.

We want to encourage everyone to use the online voting process. Electronic voting is safe, fast, secure and convenient. You will be able to access it, from anywhere you can get an internet connection – please note: you MUST have an updated voter profile.

How Do I Vote?

You will receive an email from unifor2002@simplyvoting.com prior to the election. It will contain your secure login information and a link to the electronic election ballot(s). Be sure to add unifor2002@simplyvoting.com to your address book to ensure messages are not considered junk mail.

You do NOT need to update your voter profile to vote in the next election if in the last 12 months:

You have already voted electronically

You have registered to vote electronically

NOTE: If you have updated your profile and have not received an email confirmation, please check your junk mail folder.

Electronic voting will take place as follows:

Round 1: September 19 - 21

Round 2: October 3 - 5

Round 3: October 17 - 19

If you have any questions or concerns about your district’s elections, please contact your district elections committee or your Vice President.

In addition to electronic voting, we will also provide workplace balloting as a secondary alternative. Workplace vote dates, times and locations will be posted at each work location.

Please note: acclaimed and nominated candidates will be posted in each work location. We urge you to make electronic voting a success by participating online.

Best of luck to all the candidates in the upcoming elections.

In Solidarity,

Euila Leonard – President Unifor Local 2002

*************************************************************************************************

Sept. 11, 2017

********************Upcoming Elections**************************

It's election time! Here's a list of the Candidates: 

District Chair:

Ross McConkey

Shannon Rusnick

Vice Chairs:

Ethelyn David

Sabrina DiStefano

Erin Draper

Nancy Eyton-Jones

Francisco Ferrari

Luis Garcia-Mendez

Melanie Hardy

Birgit Janssen

Marijana Krilic

Simon Lau

Trish Levesque

Jacky Lui

Health and Safety:

Geoff Curran

Jeff Laufer

Stay tuned from your elections committee on where and when to vote!

********************************************************************************************

Aug 31, 2017

Stats and the tone from the Company

Hello Everyone,

You all have been under a lot of pressure as of late. Its very clear the Company is forging ahead on a path of productivity at all costs including your welfare. Its like they have convinced themselves they even know what lies ahead beyond 2020. What isn't so clear are the stats and how they affect you. 

100 percent conformance is beyond reason even the machines you use do not produce these results. 

We have an employer that appears to disregard your basic rights through your collective agreement and causes you stress with metrics that you can not possibly achieve, basically setting you up for failure.

The reality is they are looking for you to make up  for their poor decisions. 

The office re-org where all support functions were stripped away from you, then the radical push to downsize a highly trained workforce in a market where, lets face it, they are challenged to be able to hire and replace. The shortfall caused by this is being felt by all employees as the company attempts to make up this shortfall in ramping up productivity, essentially working you harder and beyond reason. We will not be held over a barrel on this and I urge as of today that you begin pushing back on the unreasonable restriction this company is enforcing. 

When you feel stressed out from the constant bombardment you need to report this to the union or perhaps you simply need to take a few minutes to regroup clear your thoughts and then properly service your customers. 

It is very clear that this operation has continued to operate fine in the absence of the enforcement of these stats, look no farther than the week-end where it truly is about the operation and not this metric driven environment. Most recently I have been made aware that the company will be introducing a new campaign and the theme is "Act like you are an owner" sounds like a West Jet ad. What this implies is that you have a say on the important items that affect you like an owner, we all know that has not been the case for years now. 

The Company has failed to communicate these metrics to your Bargaining Committee and until they are discussed and fully understood it's nothing we will acknowledge.

Work smart one call at a time, stress free and how you have been trained for years. We will be addressing this at the UMHQ in September.

Take care 

Ross.

*************************************************************************************

Aug 30, 2017

Executive Board Summary June 2017

***************************************************************************************

The WRITS ARE OUT,

August 24, 2017 at 9:00 AM

To : Local 2002 Members  

From : Unifor 2002 elections committee

Subject : Election for the following positions:

• • District Chairperson

  • Vice-Chairperson(s)

  • Health & Safety Representatives(s)

NOTICE OF WRIT OF ELECTION

This notice is to advise all members of Unifor Local 2002 that, in accordance with the Bylaws of Unifor Local 2002, an election will take place for the above-mentioned position(s).

The term of office for all elected workplace representatives of Unifor Local 2002, except for bargaining  committees, is three (3) years and begins on November 1st of each election year (Bylaws, Article 4.9.05 (c)).

Any member in good standing may run for election for the position by submitting a completed nomination form to the Unifor Local 2002 office via:

Fax: (905) 678-0100 or 1-866-635-5956

Email: admin2@unifor2002.org

Nominations must be received no later than NOON EST on September 7, 2017. Nominees MUST confirm that the nomination was received by calling the Local’s office:

(905) 678-1551 or 1-888-226-8885.

All candidates shall be able to withdraw their nomination no later than NOON EST on September 11, 2017.

Nominations and Statements of Qualifications will only be accepted between :

AUGUST 24, 2017 and NOON ET on SEPTEMBER 7, 2017

****************************************************************************************************

August 18, 2017       VACATION EQUALIZATION PAYOUT

Hello Everyone,

After a lengthy process, the union was successful in having the company respect the CBA by securing the vacation equalization payout.  Going forward it should be paid out on an annual basis.

In solidarity,

Your Union Team

*********************************************************************************************

August 16 2017,                      Quick Update,

Hello Everyone,

The Company just responded to our inquiry about when the next shift bid will be. The build will be September 17th if all goes well we bid the following week September 25th. and Implementation will be October 21st.

Update on Grievance d104-02-17  Relief movement and consecutive days off. The Company interprets that they do not have to keep 2 consecutive days off when changing relief agents days off. They have always followed the process where the agent could decide whether or not they split the days off.We held a step one the Company denied we proceeded to a step two and the Company denied so we have given the Company notice of our intention to arbitrate. 

Take care,

Ross.

**************************************************************************************************

August 14 2017                         New Stats

Hello Everyone,

The Company continues to push this new KPI stat model at you.

We are still trying to understand this fully and plan to have lengthy discussion with the Company at the UMHQ /Monitoring and Measurement Meeting in Montreal next month. In the mean time please continue to work how you always have it is how you have been trained and always worked.

I will remind you what the collective agreement says about monitoring and measurement:

Lou.11.01

The Company and the Union recognize the stress that individual monitoring and measurement creates for employees if it is perceived as or utilized in a manner inconsistent with the purposes as set out herein. It is not the intended purpose of monitoring and measurement  to place unreasonable restrictions on employees or to discipline or discriminate against employees.

Lou.11.02 Monitoring

The purpose of monitoring is to support the processes of employee counselling, training and development.

Lou.11.03 Measurement

The purpose of measurement is to provide the necessary information to determine the level of service to customers and to establish staff requirements.

If you feel that the above language is not being followed please immediately bring your concerns to the Union office so we can take necessary actions.

Take care,

Ross and the Union Team.

**************************************************************************************************

August 2nd, Pre 

Retirement seminar

Unifor Planning For Your Future / Pre-Retirement Course.

The Unifor Planning for your Future/Pre-Retirement one day educational course open to all Unifor members, spouses and partners.

Retirement is something we are all going to face. It’s better to start sooner rather than later. This course includes of all of the topics you need to think about to prepare yourself and your family for the next phase of your life.

Topics include:

A Satisfying and Fulfilling Retirement

Are you mentally ready to retire?

How can you adapt to your increased leisure time?

How to you develop new relationships?

We’ll discuss the benefits of volunteering and staying active in retirement.

Financial Advice

Financial Planners from a Local Credit Union will provide a detailed presentation for your personal financial plan.

Legal Planning

A Legal Representative will provide a presentation on Wills and Powers of Attorney and other important legal issues as part of your retirement plan.

Government Pensions

A Citizen Services Specialist with Service Canada will provide a detailed presentation on how to apply for and receive your Canada Pension and Old Age Security Benefits.

All presentations are interactive and open to questions in person and not on the phone.

**Spouses and Partners are invited and encouraged to attend.

The Course date is September 19th, 2017

Time: 8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Lunch will be provided.

Location:

Unifor New Westminister Office

326 12th Street

New Westminster, BC

To sign up, please register and send myself an email at:

tim@unifor2002.org 

Course Deadline Date is September 15, 2017. 12:00 Noon PST.

************************************************************************************************

July 19,2017

Hello Everyone, a couple of things the Company has finally responded about potential LOA'S for the fall and said they are not offering any. They site part of the reason being the uncertainty around the Aimia AC piece.

Are you all as confused as I am around the new KPI model, I feel there are so many unanswered questions around this. Please just continue to service your customers as you always have we will continue to seek clarity around this. It would be nice to be supported in a way that did not bring stress or added pressure for a change especially in light of the lack of information around our future with this Company.

I would like to thank Erin in her efforts to raise much needed apparel and funds for the Down Town Eastside Woman's Shelter a very worthy cause.

I will be on Vacation next week the union office will be open and again email any concerns someone will get back to you as soon as we can.

Take care, 

Ross.

***************************************************************************************************

July 17, 2017

                                                        BASKET RAFFLE WINNER

The winner of the draw is Naomi Tamura. Thank you to everyone that contributed to the draw and funderwearser. I have 3 boxes of bras, socks and underwear and we raised $150.00 for the Downtown Eastside Women's Centre. I will take the donations down to the centre tomorrow morning.

Erin

Women's Advocate

July 14, 2017

                            F-underwear-ser For DEWC

Just a reminder that the last day for collections is July 17. You can bring your donations down to the union office. The basket raffle will also continue until the 17th. We will do the draw at the end of the open house. Thanks again for all your support!

Erin

Women's Advocate

July 6, 2017

Election for the following positions:

District Elections Committee Members

NOTICE OF WRIT OF ELECTION

This notice is to advise all members of Unifor Local 2002 that, in accordance with the Bylaws of Unifor Local 2002, an election will take place for the above-mentioned position(s).

The term of office for all elected workplace representatives of Unifor Local 2002, except for bargaining committees, is three (3) years and begins on the first day of the month following the election (Bylaws, Article 4.1.06). Vacancies filled during the term of office shall not exceed the original three (3) year term ending July 31, 2020 (Bylaws, Article 4.1.08).

Any member in good standing may run for election for the position by submitting a completed nomination form to the Unifor Local 2002 office via:

Fax: (905) 678-0100 or 1-866-635-5956

Email: admin2@unifor2002.org

Nominations must be received no later than NOON EST on July 20, 2017. Nominees MUST confirm that the nomination was received by calling the Local’s office:

(905) 678-1551 or 1-888-226-8885.

All candidates shall be able to withdraw their nomination no later than NOON EST on July 24, 2017.

Nominations will only be accepted between:

6 July 2017 and NOON ET on 20 July 2017

*******************************************************************************************

July 5 ,2017

                                           F-UNDERWEAR-SER BASKET RAFFLE 

Please see the leads area for the WINE basket that is being raffled. It has all sorts of goodies in it including 3 bottles of wine! Tickets are $2.00 each with proceeds going to D.E.W.C. The raffle and the underwear drive will go on until July 17th. Please bring your socks, underwear, bra donations to the union office.

Thanks again for all your support!

Erin

YVR Women's Advocate

July 4th,                                  UNIFOR OPEN HOUSE

Hello Everyone, I hope you all found some peace over the Canada Day Week end.

I will be hosting an open house on the 17th of July. Please drop by bring any concerns your union team will be present. It will be held in the Union Board Room just down from the Union Office. 11am to 1330 and 1430 to 1600. We look forward to seeing you there.

Ross and the Union Team.

**********************************************************************************************

June 27, 2017  F'underwear'ser

I am doing an underwear drive for the Downtown Eastside Women's Centre. They are in urgent need of bras, underwear and socks. I will also be doing a raffle basket in conjuction to help raise some funds. More details for the raffle to follow soon. I will be collecting underwear until July 17th.  Thank you again for all your support!

Erin

Women's Advocate

June 8 2017,   Privacy

I feel compelled to remind you about your rights when it comes to your most very private information. Many of you from time to time may require a medical accommodation. This requires you filling out paperwork that could include your diagnoses. Please do not share this with your TM as they do not have the right to know this, Nor does the Company. The forms need to be forwarded to SunLife from a secure device to evaluate.  They in turn will communicate, not your condition but their opinion whether or not they agree with the request of accommodation. Your information should never be shared with any other party. If you are considering an accommodation and need further clarification please come down to the union office first so we can advise you more on the process.

Thanks,

Ross

*********************************************************************************************************

June 8 

The Health and welfare spending account is back , 200.00 fte 100.00 for pte. It's in effect August 1 2017 to July 31st 2018. So any unclaimed health expenses accrued past August 1st 2017 shall apply.

Cheers 

Ross

***GIDIP: Air Canada and Aeroplan Health Care Spending Account

Unifor Local 2002 Health and Welfare Trust Board of Trustees is pleased to announce a new benefit program for Members called Health Spending Account Benefit.

Your Trustees recognizes your changing needs when it comes to your group benefit package. A Health Spending Account Benefit gives your considerable flexibility and control, which helps you get the most from your benefit plan. Based on your own individual requirements and health care priorities, you decide where to spend your Health Spending Account dollars.

For a Limited Time Period Unifor Local 2002 Health and Welfare Trust will make available a spending account for each eligible Member. This benefit is fully funded through funds previously negotiated through the Collective Agreement process. Since these funds are derived from the Employer they cannot be used towards the GIDIP premiums/benefit enhancements as the GIDIP benefit would be viewed as partially funded by the Employer and the GIDIP benefit would become taxable to the Members.

This benefit is tax-free to Members, except in Quebec where it is taxable by the provincial government.

What You Should Know:

Effective Date: August 1, 2017. You will be able to submit receipts for expenses incurred from August 1, 2017 through to July 31, 2018. Claims must be received in the office of the Plan Administrator by 12:00 noon (EST) July 31, 2018. Any unclaimed credit amounts at the end of July 31, 2018 are forfeited.

Amount Available to You:

Full-time Members: $200.00

Part-Time Members: $100.00

Who is Eligible:

If you are covered (contributing GIDIP premiums) under the Unifor Local 2002 Group Insurance Disability Income Plan (GIDIP) on August 1, 2017, you are eligible.

You can also submit claims for your dependents (spouse, common-law spouse and children) including parents and grandparents who are considered dependents under the Income Tax Act).

Who can receive Health Spending Account Payments?

Payments from a Health Spending Account are only made payable to the Member. Therefore, dental claims that may be assigned cannot be reimbursed from the Health Spending Account to the dentist.

Types of Expenses you can claim through a Health Spending Account:

You can use the Health Spending Account credits for expenses considered eligible by the Canada Customs and Revenue Agency such as (but not limited to):

Deductibles or co-insurance

Prescribed medications such as Viagra or fertility drugs

Major dental work including bridges, crowns, dentures and orthodontics

Vision care expenses including laser eye surgery

Registered Massage Therapy 

For more information on expenses considered eligible by the Canada Customs and Revenue Agency, visit their website at: www.cra-arc.gc.ca/ (under Forms and Publications, enter IT-519R2 in the Search box).

How do I submit a claim under the Health Spending Account?

Claims that are not covered or not paid in full by your Group Insurance Plan can be submitted under the Health Spending Account by completing a claim form and attaching the original receipt(s) and sent to the address indicated on the claim form. Up to 100% of allowable expenses can be reimbursed. A supply of claim forms have been provided to your District Chair.

All eligible claims covered under your Group Plan must first be submitted to your Group Insurance Plan (regardless of whether you have previously reached your maximum for a specific claim). Claims eligible under your Group Plan will only be considered upon receipt of a copy of the original receipt/claim form and a copy of Payment Summary (indicating the “Service Dates). Please note that a Claims Summary (indicating “Submitted Date”) will NOT be acceptable.

How will you know your Health Spending Account balance?

When your claim is paid, you will receive an Explanation of Benefits (EOB) statement that itemizes the amount claimed, the amount eligible, the amount reimbursed, as well as your remaining health spending account balance.

Should you have any questions regarding this benefit, contact Canadian Benefits Consulting Group who will be pleased to assist you.

In solidarity,

Sophia Michailidis, Chairperson Eastern region

Terry Carlucci, Trustee Central region

Marie Doyle, Trustee Atlantic region

Ross McConkey, Trustee Pacific region

Jeremy Rabbitte, Trustee Western region

****************************************************************************************

June 7 2017

Hello Everyone,   Voice of the Customer,

The Company is busy having meetings with you about the new KPI model and the Voice of the Customer Taping that many of you have already seen in your Total View. I have had it clarified through a conversation with Shirley Quinn that the VOC is not in addition to the taping your manager already does. It will be VOC or The advised taping. VOC  being loaded in total is your advisement in advance. The bigger concern was some of you were going into your meetings yesterday with the understanding that they would be doing both in tandem. If you continue to get this message from your TM please report it to the Union. Same  coaching practice applies once a month choice of recording behind closed doors or side by side. If not meeting KPI stats twice a month same process. All Taping that results in a conversation you have the right of advanced advisement.

Take care 

Ross.

********************************************************************************************************

June 5 2017,

Attention  Everyone***** Important*******

Its has been brought to my attention that one of our Members has solicited some of  your personal emails for the purpose of communicating Union Information. This individual has been asked now a third time from myself and our National Rep.Leslie Dias to not do this. You never elected this individual to represent you. We work hard to make sure the information you receive is accurate and well vetted from rumour. I have asked for this person to stop this immediately. Important to know that when this information goes out it only reaches a few of you.

We are heading into a very hard and stressful time and I am sure that last thing you want are rumours and false hearsay. We will continue to update you and keep you in the loop and leave the water cooler talk where it belongs. 

Take Care,

Ross.

****************************************************************************************************

June 5 2017,

Aeroplan EAP Representatives Review

The term for the Aeroplan Employee Assistance program (EAP) Representative positions for YVR and YUL are ending. Although the experience and training garnered over the years can make the EAP Representative incumbent invaluable, the Unifor Local 2002 bylaws require us to post appointed positions every three years. The reason is that by its virtue, posting the positions gives an automatic review; it gives transparency and allows the Local to do its due diligence by asking if anyone in our membership is more qualified to be an Aeroplan EAP Representative.

- The duties and responsibilities of an EAP Rep are as follows:

- To build links with other union's EAP Coordinators.

- To monitor and work as a resource to the Unifor contracted EAP provider.

- To coordinate and assist with the delivery of related training programs to union workplace representatives.

- Must be familiar with Unifor Local 2002 structure and philosophy with regards to EAP.

- Any other responsibilities as directed by the President of the Local.

The term of office will end October 31, 2019. Any Aeroplan member in good standing interested in applying for the EAP position, (Montreal or Vancouver), should send a resume outlining their particular experience and a cover letter with reasons for applying for the position no later than Monday June 19, 2017 at 12:00 EST. Only qualified applicants will be interviewed.

Please mail, fax or email your resume and cover letter to:

Unifor Local 2002 – Aeroplan EAP Rep

Attn: Kerry Turner

7015 Tranmere Drive, Unit 5

Mississauga, Ontario L5S 1M2

Fax: (905) 678-0100 / (866) 635-5956

E-mail: kerry@unifor2002.org

*******************************************************************************************************

June 02 2017

Hi Everyone,

Just a heads up for everyone, Shift bid has been delayed. We are estimating it is behind a week. The company will re-publish the amended timelines shortly. 

******************************************************************************************************

May 29 2017,

Hello all,

I previously communicated with you about the Surveys and how the Bargaining Committee delivered our position that was you could not discuss these results individually with you from coaching sessions.  At the last UMHQ M&M meeting we spoke extensively about our concerns. We made it clear that these were random and we felt they violated our Lou.11 Language. The Company responded saying they wanted us the Bargaining Committee to re-consider this and get back to them with a response. We met briefly after that meeting and firmly concluded that we wanted this process to end. Last week we communicated this and thought this ordeal would be behind us. On Friday I opened my emails and there was a message from Shirley stating that the Company is going forward with this method of coaching. In kind I responded stating that its very unfortunate that there is no will to work collectively. It amazes me that after all we have seen from this Company that they would want to kick the hornets nest on this issue. I believe our voice needs to be heard and when the Company continues to act in a unilateral position with no concern on how we feel is just one more sign that they really don't care. Immediately I sent a request for a Step One Grievance it will be heard Thursday on this issue. Please send through to the union office any concerns or interactions with respect to these surveys.

We will take this as far as we need to have this issue resolved.

Take Care,

Ross

***** Memebrship Meeting ************ May 22 2017

This Wednesday May 24, From 11-1300  1500-1630 in the Board Room down the hall from the Union office. Please try to attend for a chance to discuss all the recent developments and to bring your concerns forward.

 I look  forward to seeing you all there.

Ross.

************* UMHQ Update********************************************may 22 2017

Hello Everyone, 

The Umhq was fairly uneventful here's what was discussed.

Most of you are aware that there are no Loa's offered for July and August. I understand this to be disappointing news to those whom expressed interest, but it shows with Vacation and our current workforce we were on course for the second worst summer ever. The Company did say RO will be offered in slower periods.

We discussed the current issues that keep cropping up with respect to payroll. The runaround you experience when dealing with Ceridian. We told the Company that we should not have to chase our pay to make sure it is correct. The Company admitted that they are having some issues with the payroll provider. We also asked for a specific go to person in each office.

The Company said they will continue to hire through out this year.We are looking forward to seeing more new faces in the future.

New work was discussed from what the Company called Multi Channel. It most likely will be around Chat and facebook. The Company plans to announce a pilot in the near future.

We then had our Monitoring and Measurement meeting.

The Company presented a new method for monitoring conformance they will unveil this to you in the near future. 

We have communicated very clearly about the C-stat Surveys and how the Company must not use these in individual coaching sessions. We believe these to be random and they violate Lou.11.

Hang on,  we understand the level of stress everybody is experiencing and the enormity the latest announcement fueling the stress. We will get to where we need to be.

Ross. 

May 19, 2017

Aeroplan, Air Canada: Update on loyalty program contract renewal

A week ago, Aimia announced that Air Canada may not renew their contact in 2020. This was followed by an equally surprising announcement that Air Canada intended to launch their own loyalty program.

While it is early in the process and there really is no substantive vision of what an Air Canada in-house loyalty program could look like, we are strategizing over potential outcomes. We have engaged our legal department and they are currently reviewing the situation from all angles. It will also take some time to get a more complete picture from Air Canada on its view of where and how they envision this happening.

We understand it will be difficult, but we do ask for some patience while we work to get you more answers.

For more information, please contact:

Leslie Dias, National Representative

********************************************************************************************************

May 12, 2017

Hi Everyone,

 With the recent news, your union team has already sprung into action. We are in discussions with our National rep and President of our Local. Please email/forward us your concerns by Tues May 16, 2017. Our email is cawd104@gmail.com

Your Union Team

********************************************************************************************************

May 11, 2017 at 7:30 PM

Members at Aeroplan were shocked when they received a notice on the evening of May 10, 2017, from their employer announcing that they believe Air Canada does not intend to renew their partnership agreement with Aimia. The message informed employees that without an alternate agreement in place, the current contract expires June 2020.

Despite sitting at a Union-Management meeting in Montreal earlier in the day, the Union was blindsided by the employer. Your Unifor 2002 bargaining committee received the news at the same time as all employees.

At this point, we are asking for more details and will communicate information with our members as we learn more. To ensure that you are kept informed, please subscribe to Unifor 2002’s e-news service at www.unifor2002.org.

For more information, please contact your regional bargaining committee representative.

In solidarity,

Your Unifor bargaining committee,

Ross McConkey

Vince De Sua

Jacky Lui

Stephen Lussier

Euila Leonard, Unifor Local 2002 President

Josee Genois, Assistant to the Local President

Leslie Dias, National Representative

********************************************************************************************************

May 11, 2017

Hi Everyone,

Many of you have read and learned of the news in light of contract talks between Aimia and Air Canada. Over the past 2 days in Montreal for the UMHQ, this was not brought to our attention nor we had any advanced notice. The Bargaining committee was blindsided like everyone else. We are communicating closely with our Local and National Rep to ensure that all jobs being protected is a priority. As we learn further information or updates, we will communicate this with everyone. If you have any questions concerns please send email to cawd104@gmail.com So we can get answers. 

Thank you and Stay Strong,

Your Bargaining Reps

Ross and Jacky

****************************************************************************************************

May 11, 2017

Hi Everyone,

Many of you have read and learned of the news in light of contract talks between Aimia and Air Canada. Over the past 2 days in Montreal for the UMHQ, this was not brought to our attention nor we had any advanced notice. The Bargaining committee was blindsided like everyone else. We are communicating closely with our Local and National Rep to ensure that all jobs being protected is a priority. As we learn further information or updates, we will communicate this with everyone. If you have any questions concerns please send email to cawd104@gmail.com So we can get answers. 

Thank you and Stay Strong,

Your Bargaining Reps

Ross and Jacky

*********************************************************************************************************

May 5, 2017

Unifor 2002: Executive Board Election Results

Notice of Election Results

The Unifor Local 2002 Election Committee is pleased to announce the following results for the Executive Board.

President

Euila Leonard - ELECTED - 1722

Cheryl Robinson - 1708

Stephen Lussier - 949

Spoiled - 256

Total - 4635

Secretary Treasurer

Wade Ireland - ELECTED - 2150

Lorrie Holden - 1662

John Price - 474

Spoiled - 343

Total - 4629

Vice-President: Pacific Region

Tim Cheung - ELECTED - 401

Luis Garcia - 310

Spoiled - 22

Total - 733

Vice-President: Western Region

Jan Sills - ELECTED - 214

Ashley MacInnis - 192

Spoiled - 20

Total - 426

Vice-President: Central Region

Charlotte Pape - ELECTED - 809

Ted Mossa - 439

Ata Ugursoy - 189

Spoiled - 93

Total - 1530

Vice-President: Eastern Region

Ada Zampini - ELECTED - 516

Manon Camiré - 267

Spoiled - 41

Total - 824

Vice-President: Atlantic Region

Gilles Goguen - ACCLAIMED

Vice-President: Jazz CSA/ACS & Crew Scheduling

Christine Bower - ELECTED - 113

Kyle Hamilton - 17

James Sinfield - 10

Spoiled - 6

Total - 146

Vice-President: Jazz Technical Line Maintenace &Technical Services

Don Ross - ELECTED - 375

Nurur Rahman - 156

Spoiled - 22

Total - 553

In solidarity,

Sharon Low 

Chairperson Unifor Local 2002 Elections Committee

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May 04 2017

Hello Everyone, I wanted to update you on a few events happening in the next 2 weeks.

Aeroplan UMHQ, Is scheduled for next week, Jack and I travel to Montreal the 8th, 9th ,and 10th of May, I will be attending the E-board meeting Friday the 12th  through the week end. Sunday May 14 delegates from Yvr Aeroplan will travel to Port Elgin Ontario for our Triannual Convention. 

The office will be staffed by Melanie and Erin, or email me if you have any concerns. Will report fully after 22 may.

Take Care, and May the Fourth be with you all

Ross.

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In Memory, Some of us worked with this great lady through our union careers..In great sadness she has passed away,

Welcome Everyone to Our Annual Holiday Open House,

Tuesday December 20th from 11:00 am till 16:30 In the old Manpower office. Please come by and enjoy some holiday cheer. We are featuring Samosa this year.

See you all Tuesday,

Ross.

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Stop Bill C-27! Don't let the federal government roll the dice with your future

Important Links

                                                XMAS BASKET RAFFLE FOR DEWC

There is a Xmas basket raffle with all proceeds going to the Downtown Eastside Women's Centre. Tickets are $1,please write your name on them and put into the box. You can purchase the tickets and view the basket at the printer area behind Leads.Thank you for all your support!

Erin 

Women's Advocate

                                      WOMEN'S SHELTER DONATION DEADLINE CHANGE

Due to snow forecasted for Thursday and Friday, I am now taking all donations down to the Women's Centre on Wednesday Dec. 7th in the morning. This means all donations need to be in by this evening or if you are planning on shopping tonight then tomorrow 8am at the latest. We will still have a basket raffle next week with cash proceeds going to the centre if you are unable to donate a gift by tomorrow. Sorry for any inconvenience this may have caused. Again, thank you for all your contributions!

Erin Draper

Women's advocate

                                     DECEMBER 6, 2016 National Day Of Remembrance

Dec 06 is the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women. 27 years ago on this day, 14 women were massacred at Ecole Polytechnique simply for being women. Please show your commitment towards ending violence against women and girls by wearing a white ribbon and taking a moment of silence to commemorate those that have died from gender violence.

Please see Erin to get a white ribbon.

                                        REMINDER WOMEN'S SHELTER

Last day for donation drop is Thur Dec 08th. 

The wish list is posted at the Union office as well the lunch room or here:

New Gifts for Women:

Gift Certificates, Toiletries, Socks, Underwear, Pajamas, Robes, Mitts, Gloves,Scarves

New Gifts for Teens:

Gift Certificates (Chapters, London Drugs, Best Buy, Starbucks, Wal-Mart, Whitespot, etc) Movie Tickets, Sports Balls, Community Centre memberships

New Gifts for Kids:

Gift Certificates (see Teen list), toys, games

Financial donations to pay for Holiday Meals:

We are accepting donations to pay for special Holiday Meals and Festive items: Christmas Dinner, Christmas Brunch, and New Year’s Brunch

Please bring new, unused gifts only.  The deadline for donations is Thursday Dec. 8. and you can drop them off at the union office. I will deliver them the morning of Dec.9. Thank you very much for your contributions,

Erin Draper

Women's Advocate

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12/01/2016

FYI  Air Canada is looking for temporary workers if you know anyone  that may be interested they can contact by email Brain.kao@Aircanada.ca

Ross.

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12/01/2016

Hello Everyone a celebration of life for the memory of Suzette Galloway has been planned this Saturday at 2pm till 5 pm. at Mahoney and Sons Pub at Stamps Landing Vancouver. 

Take Care ,

Ross.

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12/01/2016

Hey Group,

I just wanted to touch base on our UMHQ. yesterday, Good discussion around the potential of future new hires.The Company has committed to an additional class in Montreal for December and then potentially Vancouver in the New Year. Momentum is moving in the right direction. We stressed the importance new employees and the affect they would have on our schedules.

There was lot of discussion around policy and process, we feel there could be smoother process when making requests or even receiving information from the employer.( HR.)

There seems to be a will to offer more time off next year and to discuss some ideas around this while they continue hiring. Once we dive deeper into these ideas we will update you.

As the Company has just restructured their agenda was fairly light but they will give us a full operational update at the next UMHQ in early February.

We adjourned at 0945 and attended Angie's Service.

Take Care,

Ross

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 11/28/2016

Hello All, 

Very sad week last week, two of our friends passed away, both gallantly fighting their illness bravely and with dignity. We have so much to reflect upon. I know everyone  copes differently with grief but I would like to pass on, unfortunately from experience that talking or expressing your feelings does help. Please remember we our human its in us to have these feeling from great tragedy. We do have confidential resources available if needed.

Our UMHQ is this week in Vancouver it should prove interesting with the structure changes of upper Management. We have assembled a list of issues to be discussed and will brief you after the meetings.

Mark you calendars the Unfior Holiday Open house is December 20th. The usual refreshments available, please come by for a visit.I will post more details as the week progresses.

Take Care ,

Ross.

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                              Memorial Services for Angie Gill

       For those of us who wish to pay our respects and attend the memorial service for our

       friend and colleague Angie Gill please see the following details.

                            Wake - Tuesday Nov 29th at 6:30 pm

                            Funeral Service   - Wed Nov 30 at 10:00 am

                            with reception to follow.

                            St John the Apostle Parish

                            5457 Trafalgar Street

                            Vancouver, B.C.

                           Burial - Wed Nov 30 at 1:00 pm

                           Victory Memorial Park

                           28th Avenue, Surrey B.C.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made to the Palliative Care Unit at Vancouver General Hospital, where the staff took such wonderful care of Angie during her stays there.  You can donate by going to:

Click here 

Under "direct my gift to", select "other", type in "palliative care". Notification can be made to ronald_gill@hotmail.com.

Thank you.

               DOWNTOWN EASTSIDE WOMEN'S CENTRE XMAS GIFT-RAISER

The Downtown Eastside Women's Centre is accepting donations of NEW, unwrapped gifts for women and children for holiday celebrations.  Any new gift you can donate is greatly appreciated.  The following is a list of popular gift ideas:

New Gifts for Women:

Gift Certificates, Toiletries, Socks, Underwear, Pajamas, Robes, Mitts, Gloves,Scarves

New Gifts for Teens:

Gift Certificates (Chapters, London Drugs, Best Buy, Starbucks, Wal-Mart, Whitespot, etc) Movie Tickets, Sports Balls, Community Centre memberships

New Gifts for Kids:

Gift Certificates (see Teen list), toys, games

Financial donations to pay for Holiday Meals:

We are accepting donations to pay for special Holiday Meals and Festive items: Christmas Dinner, Christmas Brunch, and New Year’s Brunch

Please bring new, unused gifts only.  The deadline for donations is Thursday Dec. 8. and you can drop them off at the union office. I will deliver them the morning of Dec.9. Thank you very much for your contributions,

Erin Draper

Women's Advocate

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Nov 21 2016 

It is with deep personal regret that we have lost two dear friends and colleagues, Suzette Galloway and Angie Gill. Our hearts and prayers go out to their friends and families. As soon as we hear about the service dates and times, we will pass the information on.

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April 05, 2016

The Union team and I want to Thank Joanne Laganiere and Roselyn Derksen for organizing the wonderful retirement party on Friday April 01st. Without you ladies, we would not have been able to make it happen with so much success. If you see them please give them kudos for job well done.

Word to our colleagues who are leaving us,

Our best wishes go with you

We will remember you and most importantly don't forget about us. 

Ross

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April 1, 2016

This week, your bargaining committee met with the employer in Montreal. With the assistance of the Conciliator, we made considerable progress.

In order to protect the integrity of the negotiation process, the committee cannot discuss specific details with the membership while in talks with management. However, we will continue to keep you informed with any further developments. Please ensure that you have subscribed to Unifor 2002’s e-news service at www.unifor2002.org.

The parties are scheduled to meet in Toronto April 6th and 7th.

We will continue to work hard to reach a settlement that will meet the needs and expectations of the membership.

The bargaining committee would like to thank the membership for your continued support during this extended period of negotiations with Aeroplan.

In solidarity,

Your Bargaining Committee

Ross McConkey

Vince De Sua

Alenka Karkling

Stephen Lussier

Cheryl Robinson, Unifor Local 2002 President

Josee Genois, Assistant to the Local Presid

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April 25,2016

Hello everyone, The company is currently or will be asking you to read and accept the code of ethics. We have discovered a new portion and it is titled Declaration of Interest. At this time we are asking our members to not fill these out. We have left it with the Unions Legal to review and advise if indeed there are any concerns.

Thanks,

Ross

April 21,2016

Hello everyone a couple of things to update,

I know you all would like to know when all the benefits and language changes will be in effect.We will be on a call early next week to discuss all. 60 days was only an absolute deadline for the company they are committed to have all in place way sooner than the 60 days.

I would like to congratulate Jacky Lui for his recent win for the role as Bargaining Representative. I also would like to thank Sabrina and Monica for putting their names forward and interest in the position.

I also feel compelled to congratulate everyone for the recent ratification, I believe 96 percent is a record. We now have to shift gears from bargaining to making our workplace a place we can come and work and hopefully be stressfree.

Take care ,

Ross.

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April 19, 2016

A quick note,

A pair of glasses were left at the morning meeting in a black case. If these are yours you can claim them at the union office.

Thanks,

Ross.

April 15, 2016

Unifor members at Aeroplan ratify a new collective agreement

Unifor Local 2002 is pleased to announce that the tentative agreement reached with Aeroplan has been ratified by 96 per cent.

The negotiated benefits of the three-year collective agreement include:

Wage Increases retroactive to November 2015 – 2% per year

Benefits improvement

New work: Web functions, Social Media, Non air reward work

"The Bargaining Committee has done an excellent job taking the membership’s concerns and turning them into an agreement that provides job security and gains for workers in Montreal and Vancouver," said Cheryl Robinson, Unifor 2002 President.

"I would like to thank the Aeroplan bargaining committee and the membership for their hard work, support and patience throughout talks. In the face of layoffs and changes, the Unifor 2002 membership at Aeroplan has supported the bargaining committee during the months of negotiations, all the way through to the conciliation process. The solidarity with — and confidence in — the committee was instrumental in achieving the goals set out many months ago at the proposal meetings."

Unifor would like to thank all of the members who took the time to attend the meetings over the last two days and ratify this new collective agreement.

In solidarity,

Your bargaining committee

Ross McConkey

Vince De Sua

Alenka Karkling

Stephen Lussier

Cheryl Robinson, Unifor Local 2002 President

Josée Genois, Assistant to the Local President

Leslie Dias, National Representative

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HIGHLIGHTS OF THE TENTATIVE AGREEMENT BETWEEN UNIFOR AND AEROPLAN APRIL 2016 ECONOMIC HIGHLIGHTS

 Wage increases retroactive to November 15, 2015: 

• 2% in year 1 

• 2% in year 2 

• 2% in year 3 

70 Voluntary Separation Packages over 2 years:

 • 35 VSP in 2017 - Any remaining are carried over to the next year. 

• 35 VSP 2018 

Additional sick days: 

• 1 in 2016 

• 1 in 2017 - A total of eight per year. 

Vacation pay: 2% per week of vacation entitlement

BENEFITS IMPROVEMENT 

Paramedical services expanded to include Acupuncture and Occupational therapy. Coverage increased to $75 per visit to a maximum of: 

• $1,200 per person per year 

• $2,400 per family per year 

Vision benefits increased to $350 every 2 years Orthodontic coverage increased to $3,000 

OTHER HIGHLIGHTS 

• Leads in both offices 

• Lou 18 and Art 10 - Severance: 3 weeks for each year of service to a maximum of 52 weeks 

• Extra break for a 10-hour shift 

• New work - Web functions will be introduced at both locations: social media and non-air reward work • Bereavement days increased to 4 

• New process for awarding statutory holidays 

RECOMMENDATION 

Your committee unanimously recommends this tentative agreement and urges you to vote in favour of the recommendation for acceptance. 

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April 11 2016

Reminder Bargaining Representative Elections:

An email will be sent later today, reminding people online voting is open 12,13, 14 and with their pins and passwords.

If anyone does not receive an email they can send an email for password with their name, employee number, email address (non aeroplan personal email) to admin2@unifor2002.org

It is very important that no one forward their email. If members don't receive their password to vote electronically, they must send the following information to admin2@unifor2002.org

Name

Employee number

Mailing address

Personal email address

Once they have done that, they will receive their password within a few hours.

If anyone does not get a chance to e-vote, there is the workplace voting on  April 19, 20 posted in the workplace.

In Solidarity,

Luis Melendez

Pacific Region VP

Unifor Local 2002

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April 08 2016

Bargaining Representative Elections:

Electronic balloting will take place from Tuesday, April 12, 2016 0001 hrs to Thursday, April 14, 2016 2359hrs

Physical balloting will take place in the Lunch Room on:

Tuesday, April 19, 2016 from 1000hrs to 1200hrs and from 1530hrs to 1715hrs

Wednesday, April 20, 2016 from 10hrs to 1200hrs and from 1530hrs to 1715hrs.

April 27,2016

Hello everyone I have some information to share we had a meeting to go over dates and times our new bargained benefits and language would take place here's what I have so far,

Benefits: In affect as of May 1st. So anything submitted that date or for the future will be paid at the new rates. No retro benefits.

Breaks: will be added and fully in effect for May 1st. If you notice your extra break time has not been added call RTA to add.

Salary Increase: The 2 percent increase will be visible on the April 24th May 18th pay period. The retro pay  from the date of Nov 8 to April 23rd will be paid out on June 15th. We asked for clarification if it would be a separate cheque, they will let us know.

The new stat holiday process will be in affect for the July 1st stat.The company will be communicating this shortly.

Web support work: to be brought to Vancouver first potentially 20 lines to be bid this next shift bid. The plans are not final yet but the Company would like to try to roll this out to the phones section by years end.

Everything else is not yet final so will advise as the info is presented to us.

Thanks 

Ross.

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April 25,2016

Hello everyone, The company is currently or will be asking you to read and accept the code of ethics. We have discovered a new portion and it is titled Declaration of Interest. At this time we are asking our members to not fill these out. We have left it with the Unions Legal to review and advise if indeed there are any concerns.

Thanks,

Ross

April 21,2016

Hello everyone a couple of things to update,

I know you all would like to know when all the benefits and language changes will be in effect.We will be on a call early next week to discuss all. 60 days was only an absolute deadline for the company they are committed to have all in place way sooner than the 60 days.

I would like to congratulate Jacky Lui for his recent win for the role as Bargaining Representative. I also would like to thank Sabrina and Monica for putting their names forward and interest in the position.

I also feel compelled to congratulate everyone for the recent ratification, I believe 96 percent is a record. We now have to shift gears from bargaining to making our workplace a place we can come and work and hopefully be stressfree.

Take care ,

Ross.

March 08.2016.

The Bargaining Committee has been given dates for Conciliation, They are March 29, 30, 31. I look forward to getting back to the talks and bringing you all a collective agreement we can live with for the next three years. 

Thanks for the support,

Ross

*********************************************************************************************************

March 8, 2016

A woman’s work is never done: Celebrating women everywhere

On March 8th we celebrate International Women’s Day (IWD). It’s a day to celebrate our victories and look ahead to the work that needs to be done to advance gender equity. While we know that there is still a lot of work to do — at home and around the world — this is a day to stop and reflect, even just for a moment.

The first IWD was celebrated in North America in the early 1900s; A hundred years ago women in Manitoba were the first in Canada to gain the right to vote; 61 years ago married women gained the ability to work in Federal public service jobs. These gains were made by women who believed in equality and justice.

Today we remember all those women who came before us and think about those who continue to fight, sometimes in dangerous places and situations. Those sisters remind us that it is possible to have a better world if we are all willing to stand together.

This year, we are asking everyone to take a moment and thank a woman who has made a difference in your life. "Women’s work" is often taken for granted and women everywhere need to know that they are loved and appreciated.

In solidarity, sisterhood and strength,

Kim Driedger

Unifor 2002 Women’s Committee

Manon Camire

Michelle Day

Maria Doumakis

Kim Driedger

Tina Gillales

Holli Hudson

Lisa Marie Lacoste

Natasha Leekha

Carmelle Senosier

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February 27,2016

Hello Everyone, 

What can I say, this shift is probably the most challenging shift we have ever had. The fact that the company continues to shrink our workforce combined with the smaller group taking calls in Montreal not able to compliment our schedule.The calls continue to come in evenings and week ends and it prints a fairly clear picture why we have the schedules we do right now. The committee as always, tried relentlessly to mitigate the damage, what a frustrating process going in there was not a lot to work with. At the end they were able to help a few through some creativity and perseverance. I thank them for their efforts.Until this company hires some new workers or brings new work our way our schedule will not improve.

The company has indicated that there may be a few L.O.A.'S (leaves) offered this summer, very limited. We are waiting for details about this and will communicate once we have it. In addition there  may be an opportunity for some F.T.E's (fulltime) to work a reduced work week this summer, still awaiting details from the employer.

Our Bargaining process is about to enter the conciliator phase. The below bulletin explains the appointment of the conciliator. Looking forward to getting this process started understanding that it has been drawn out long enough. We need a deal, We need JOB SECURITY!

The leads have been selected and will begin training, hopefully available to assist you in the next few weeks. Proper support for you, to assist with the countless challenges you face on the phones.

Hang in there, that's what we do.

Ross.

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February 26, 2016

Federal Conciliator appointed for Aeroplan

Mr. Richard Pagé, Federal Conciliator, has been assigned to mediate the bargaining dispute between Unifor Local 2002 and Aeroplan.

Since October 14, 2015, the bargaining committee and leadership of Unifor have met with the company on several occasions in an attempt to bargain a new collective agreement. While discussions were productive, both sides were unable to come to an agreement. As a result, on February 5, 2016, both parties filed to the Federal Labour Board for conciliation.

The current collective agreement expired November 14, 2015.

Next steps in the conciliation process:

The appointed officer meets with both parties over a 60-day period to facilitate negotiations.

If the parties feel they are close to reaching a resolution they may agree to extend the conciliation period. If not, the parties enter a 21-day “cooling off period” and the officer reports back to the Minister of Labour.

While in conciliation, the company may not lock out the employees and the union may not go on strike. Strike action is only ever taken as a last resort and after certain conditions (such as a strike vote and 72-hours advance notice) are met. 

Local 2002 has a booklet entitled Workplace Power: Elements of Collective Bargaining that explains the bargaining process more fully. If you would like a copy of the booklet, or have any further questions, please contact Josée Genois, Assistant to the Local President.

Unifor Local 2002 represents more than 400 members at Aeroplan in Vancouver and Montreal who book airline rewards for customers, answer customer service questions related to online bookings and support customers with their online transactions.

The bargaining committee would like to thank you for your patience and support during this time. Although dates for conciliation meetings have not been set, we will continue to keep you informed of any updates as they are made available. Please ensure that you have subscribed to Unifor 2002’s e-news service at www.unifor2002.org.

In solidarity,

Your bargaining committee

Ross McConkey

Vince De Sua

Alenka Karkling

Stephen Lussier

Cheryl Robinson, Unifor Local 2002 President

Josée Genois, Assistant to the Local President

Leslie Dias, National Representative

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February 15 2016

Stat in lieu 

Hi Everyone , 

Reminder for requesting Stat Lieu days you can enter more then one request in case your first choice is denied. 

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February 09 2016

****OPEN HOUSE TODAY***

Please drop by from 0930 till 1230 and from 1330 til 1500.

The topic BARGAINING.

I hope  to see you there..

Ross.

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February 08 2016

Unifor/Aeroplan File for Conciliation

After having met over several days, the Union and the Company were unable to reach an agreement and several issues are still outstanding; therefore, both parties have filed a notice of dispute with the Canadian Industrial Relations Board.

The conciliation process:

Once a Notice of Dispute is filed, the Ministry of Labour has 15 days to appoint a conciliation officer. Once appointed, the officer meets with both parties over a 60-day period to facilitate negotiations. If the parties feel they are close to reaching a resolution they may agree to extend the conciliation period. If not, the parties enter a 21-day "cooling off period" and the officer reports back to the Minister of Labour. While in conciliation, the company may not lock out the employees and the union may not go on strike. Strike action is only ever taken as a last resort and after certain conditions (such as a strike vote and 72-hours advance notice) are met.

Your bargaining committee is confident that we can achieve a positive agreement for our members. We are looking forward to resuming negotiations with the assistance of the conciliator. We will advise you of our meeting dates with the Federal Conciliator as soon as they become available.

We will continue to keep you informed with any further developments. Please ensure that you have subscribed to Unifor 2002’s e-news service at www.unifor2002.org.

In solidarity,

Your bargaining committee,

Ross McConkey, Bargaining Committee

Vince De Sua, Bargaining Committee

Alenka Karkling, Bargaining Committee

Steve Lussier, Bargaining Committee

Josée Genois, Assistant to the Local President

Cheryl Robinson, Unifor Local 2002 President

Leslie Dias, Unifor National Staff Representative

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February 08, 2016

Shift Preferences

Hi Everyone, 

Please have your shift preferences up to date. If there is no changes on your preference, no new submission is required.  The shift committee will use last submitted shift preference forms when time comes to build shifts for next shift bid.

Your Union Team

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February 1, 2016

Aeroplan Bargaining Update

Your bargaining committee met with the company in Montreal the last week of January.

We were able to make progress on several issues during the meetings with the employer. There are issues that still must be resolved. Your bargaining committee is committed to achieving your proposals, and we appreciate your continued support.

Negotiations will resume February 9th.

We will continue to keep you informed with any further developments. Please ensure that you have subscribed to Unifor 2002’s e-news service at www.unifor2002.org.

In solidarity,

Your bargaining committee

Vince De Sua, Bargaining Committee

Ross McConkey, Bargaining Committee

Alenka Karkling, Bargaining Committee

Stephen Lussier, Bargaining Committee

Josée Genois, Assistant to the Local President

Cheryl Robinson, Unifor Local 2002 President

Leslie Dias, Unifor National Staff Representative

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January the 05th 2016

  Hello Everyone, 

     I Hope you all found some peace through the holidays. As you are all aware we have been meeting the Company for the last 10 weeks trying to bargain the next Collective Agreement.  Although some progress has been achieved, we feel the Company must start taking our concerns seriously.  The multiple technical errors and lack of support for the agents to do their job is quite frankly unacceptable.  To think our customers, our bread and butter, are made to wait for service they have been accustom to in the past, service they have paid for by contributing to the Aeroplan program is also unimaginable. We continue to be stretched as the  Company experiments in various ways to force the customer to a self serve model.  Our reality is not shared by all, at the top they honestly believe everything is working as designed. So you continue to work, short staffed,  unsupported, and with constant system failures as management scrambles to work out the bugs.  It is hard to imagine such a progressive Company could be on this one way track at any cost to move towards objectives that dismantle our livelihoods.  This is Our reality, sad but true, there really is enough money for everyone, share holders, employees alike.

We are having  a Union Meeting on Tuesday 12 of January, From 1300- 1530 at The former manpower office. Our 2002 President Cheryl Robinson will be there to discuss issues, Bargaining and any concerns you may have. Please try to attend or if you can't send us an email to have your concerns addressed.

Today I have filed a grievance against the Company using floor walkers, it violates the lou.22 leads language.  The Union through the bargaining process has suggested the company  uses methods to support you from the collective agreement. To date the Company out right refuses to follow our advice. We are aware in Vancouver the floorwalkers are the only resource you have, but it is not a solution to real support, the kind this Company used to care to provide us.

Tensions are high right now in both offices, as we continue to work under these conditions our colleagues in Montreal feel similar pressures. Be kind and try to keep that in mind when speaking to other union employees. Divided is not where we can afford to be right now. Remember as flawed as things are out there it was the Company that has brought this on.

Recently the Company distributed the former leads onto teams splitting them up across the office. Let us remember our short history the company did not want this group doing the function any more. Please respect this and continue following the company's direction and call Montreal when you need a lead. These folks are just agents now.

Lastly, please be aware the Company has put out a performance incentive called BINGO.  Understand that the way they confirm the validity of these cards is by going in and listening to your calls.  By playing BINGO you are agreeing to this.

I am working hard to make positive changes and I appreciate all the support.

Ross.

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Jan 05 2016

On a sad note one of our colleagues from our airline past has recently passed away. Myra Harvey worked with us at the Call Centre  Cargo and Airports. A service is scheduled this Saturday the 9th at the Richmond Country Club at 1300.

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December 30 2015,

Overtime reminders. Please see the following link for overtime reminders.

Thank you

Your Union team

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December 11, 2015

A thank you note

Thank you everyone who brought in donations for the women's shelter. They are truly appreciative of all we can give. Happy Holidays!

Erin

Women's Advocate

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December 10, 2015

IMPORTANT re: OPEN HOUSE

Due to unforeseen circumstances. The company has asked the bargaining members back the bargaining table on December the 16th 2015. We have now moved the open house to the date of December 17th, 2015 1100-1700 in the Post It meeting room ( Old Leads fishbowl ). We know many of our members would like the support of our YVR bargaining committee at the Open House .

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December 08, 2015

VOLUNTARY SEPARATION PACKAGE

The Company will offer Voluntary Separation Packages in 2016 to Agents that have reached a minimum of 8 years of seniority in Montreal and Vancouver.

Applications must be received by end of day on January 29, 2016 and will be accepted based on seniority and business requirements.

In the coming weeks, Company will be offering sessions with our provider Morneau Shepell for employees interested in applying for a VSP.

If you have questions regarding the VSPs, please contact see us or Team Manager

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December 04, 2015

Dec 06 is the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women. 26 years ago on this day, 14 women were massacred at Ecole Polytechnique simply for being women. Please show your commitment towards ending violence against women and girls by wearing a white ribbon and taking a moment of silence to commemorate those that have died from gender violence.

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December 02, 2015

Hi Everyone,

Please be aware we are transitioning our union site to new URL (website address). Please update your favorites to reflect the new website address.

www.uniford104.ca

or

https://sites.google.com/site/cawd104/

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November 20, 2015

Union Open House

*** Revised ***

Hello Everyone,

We have decided to have our open house on Thursday December 17 2015. It will be in the old leads office (Post it Room). Do pop in on your breaks. Refreshments will be served from 1100-1700.

Donations

Bring a donation for the Downtown Eastside Womens Shelter no later then December 10. Some of you have already brought some stuff by but we could all do much more for these less fortunate folks. Some of the much needed items are as follows...

New pj's, robes, mitts, gloves, scarves, socks, undies, toiletries,make up,candy or gift certificates.

In addition gifts for teens,certificates IE. BestBuy, games, toys and non perishables for the food hamper. Lets try to give a little to this essential organization.

Finally take time to focus on family and loved ones this holiday season most of us walk out of here feeling stressed and uncertain to where we are going. What really matters are the people in our lives and we need to show them we appreciate them.

Without a doubt we need to work smarter not harder, best of health to all,

Your Union Team

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November 17, 2015

Aeroplan: Posting for Pension Communication Representatives

The Aeroplan Pension Communication Representative positions are appointed for a three-year term in accordance with the Unifor Local 2002 Bylaws. As the current term is coming to a close, the two positions are being posted.

· One (1) Unifor Plan member is required from the Vancouver (YVR) office

· One (1) Unifor Plan member is required from the Montreal (YUL) office and should be bilingual (French & English) for communication purposes

Although the experience and training garnered over the years can make an incumbent invaluable, the bylaws require us to post this position every three years because it serves as a review of the position, gives transparency to the process and allows the Local to do its due diligence.

The Aeroplan Pension Communication Committee acts as a liaison between the company and the members of the plan, and is required to work with the Aeroplan bargaining committee.

The duties of the Pension Communication Representatives are:

· To promote awareness and understanding of the plan among Unifor members

· To review, at least once every year, the financial, actuarial and administrative aspects of the plan and other such administrative duties as presented by the applicable pension legislation and/or the administrator

· To provide support and information to the Aeroplan Bargaining Committee, and other duties as may be specified by the plan or Unifor Local 2002

· The duties will not include amending the provisions of the plan

Qualifications:

· Must be a Unifor Local 2002 member in good standing

· Knowledge of pension plans is an asset

· Requires a commitment to share information and communicate with members

· Willing to attend a minimum of two meetings per year and be able to travel

Interested members should send a resume and cover letter outlining their particular experience in the area of Pensions and the reasons for applying for the position. Applications should be received no later than 13:00 EST Wednesday, December 2, 2015. Only qualified applicants will be interviewed. Please mail, fax or email your statement of qualifications and cover letter to Unifor Local 2002:

Attn: Kerry Turner Re: Aeroplan Pension Communication Representative position

5-7015 Tranmere Drive, Mississauga, Ontario L5S 1M2

Fax: (905) 678-0100 / (866) 635-5956

Email: kerry@unifor2002.org

The term of office ends December 31, 2018.

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16 November 2015

The Union has approached the company to clarify some news in the media.

Response from Caroline Hagan

" We’ve gotten many questions over the course of the day asking whether the 200 job cuts that were discussed in the media and press released on 13 November 2015 are in addition to the ones already announced. I know this is causing anxiety, so let me be clear: the 200 reflect the changes over the course of 2015, including the actions that were taken to put the new divisional structure in place. But I wanted to try to alleviate some of your concerns right away. If you have more questions, please do talk to your manager."

Should you have further concerns please come by the union office

Your Union Team

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11 November 2015

REMEMBRANCE DAY

In remembrance of all Canadians who have fought and died in war, We will observe one minute of silence at 11am.

Please advise your members that you will be taking a moment of silence.

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06 November 2015

Hello Everyone ,

I am sure some of you have viewed the new schedules for January. It was very challenging to put this one together for you. The company moved 10 FTE's in Montreal to evenings as they were lacking language qualified in evenings. Unfortunately that impacted our schedule, moving up to 5 FTE's from evenings to 5:00 and 5:30 am starts, huge change. The Company also wanted more coverage on weekends this time, the call volumes seems to justify this requirement.

We are absolutely stretched, if the company moves from nights to days then the nights are left taking a hit and if they move from mornings to nights the mornings are left vulnerable. This is what running a call centre short staffed feels like, the Company continues to do more with less, on our backs. This Schedule is a sad but a true snap shot of where we are heading. Unless we see new hires walking through the door, with the work volumes how they have been, schedules will not improve. It is irritating that the Company is not addressing the staffing needs responsibly.

Your Shift committee worked very hard to mitigate these requirements questioning the companies reasoning and improving where they could. They knew fully that this schedule will represent some hard choices for some of you at the bid board. I thank them whole heartedly for their efforts, it was a very difficult and frustrating couple of weeks for them.

Hopefully bargaining will bring about some positive change. We meet Tuesday next week in Montreal.

Please stay vigilant and united. Your support brings us power at the table.

Take care,

Ross.

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26 October 2015

Positive Pay

Hi Everyone,

We would like to gather some information about Positive Pay.

What are some of you experiences with the new process in place?

Are you familiar with how to request and deposit excess time?

Any feedback on inview system in regards to positive pay?

Please email us at cawd104@gmail.com

Thank you,

Your Union Team

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23 October 2015

UPCOMING SHIFT BID

Shift bid will take place the week of November 2, with the new schedule taking effect on January 3, 2016.

Please take note of the following updated key dates and information surrounding the upcoming shift bid:

Bid times are now available on the portal or the Unifor website;

October 26 thru 29: Shift Committee to meet at each location

October 30: Shifts to be posted on portal by end of day

November 4 & 5: Shift bid takes place in both locations

November 27: Latest the shifts will be released in Total View

January 3, 2016: New schedule begins

Please note that all dates are subject to change.

If you are bidding by phone, please take note of the following contact information to use at your scheduled bid time:

Montreal: 1 (514) 205-7001

Vancouver 1 (778) 219 6050

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23 October 2015

UPDATE: STATUTORY WEEKS FOR THE 2016 VACATION YEAR

With the announcement of the STAT Week’s not being granted due to operational requirements for the 2016 vacation year here are some answers from the company.

Why were we not given Stat Weeks?

The operational requirements do not allow granting further optional vacation time off. As is always the case, if our requirements change and the option to grant time off comes available throughout the year, we will reassess those options and offer accordingly.

What happens to the hours in my STAT bank?

The hours that are in the STAT Bank will remain in that bank.

Normal process is that as of December each year, the current STAT bank where your requested statutory holiday hours are deposited, rolls into a BANK called STAT Bank redemption. This is where the hours sit and are deducted from when a STAT vacation week is taken throughout the year. When it is not taken, or not used, the hours are then paid out as of the end of the vacation year. So that would mean February of 2017 for this case.

Then as of December 2015, a new STAT week bank begins accumulation for the next Vacation year 2017.

Can I be paid out the hours in my STAT bank instead of waiting till they are automatically paid out in February 2017?

Yes, you will have the option in InView to cash out those hours up to November 30, 2015 before the bank rolls over as in the process noted in the previous question.

If you do not cash those out, the hours left in the bank will be paid out on a February or March 2017 pay period after the yearly Vacation Reconciliation process is completed.

Can I take the hours from my STAT bank to use for my BMT, instead of my time banked hours or payroll deduction that I had selected for BMT?

They are very different programs with different contract rules and processing. The BMT processing is already under way for the end of the current pay period ending October 24, 2015. The option you selected on the form will be processed accordingly.

Can I transfer the banked hours in my STAT bank to my regular Time bank?

No.

I didn’t request BMT because I had hours in my STAT bank and wanted to use those. Now that I won’t have any Stat weeks because I didn’t ask for the guaranteed one week of BMT using my time bank or payroll deduction option, will Aeroplan redo the sign up due to this fact, so that I can change my selection to BMT?

For any agents who selected Stat Weeks and/or no BMT weeks, we cannot re-open the BMT week sign up to accommodate your requests. The programs are confirmed in the order of BMT weeks (per the collective agreement), then the Stat weeks per Operational Requirements.

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19 October 2015

BUY MORE TIME / STATUTORY WEEK(S)

Following the outcome from Buy More Time/Statutory Week 2016 confirmation list,

the Union and the company are presently discussing possible options.

More details will be communicated as soon as they come out.

UNIFOR

Local 2002 D104

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08 October 2015

Successful Meeting

@unifor2002 Aeroplan leadership meet in Vancouver to discuss and strategize as we head into bargaining 

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October 05th 2015