Ottawa, Ontario, March 8, 2012—The Honourable Lisa Raitt, Canada’s Labour Minister, today received lockout notice from Air Canada effective March 12, 2012. The Government is concerned that a lockout is being considered and we are taking this situation very seriously.
“I continue to encourage both parties either to reach a deal or agree to submit to a binding process to settle their dispute and avoid a work stoppage,” said Minister Raitt. “A work stoppage at Air Canada would have a significantly negative impact on Canadians and our national economy.”
The collective agreement covering approximately 3 000 pilots expired on March 31, 2011. A mediator from the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service remains available to assist both parties in their negotiations.
The Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service was established to provide dispute resolution and prevention assistance to trade unions and employers under the jurisdiction of the Canada Labour Code.
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This news release is available in alternative formats upon request.
For further information (media only):
Ashley Kelahear
Press Secretary
Office of Minister Raitt
819-953-5646
Media Relations Office
Human Resources and
Skills Development Canada
819-994-5559
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