Air Canada’s Unlawful Strike Continues, Grounding Flights Until Tuesday
Over 10,000 Air Canada flight attendants persist in their unlawful strike on Monday, defying federal orders to resume work. This has resulted in approximately 500,000 customers being stranded and flights being cancelled until Tuesday afternoon.
The Canadian Industrial Relations Board has declared the strike “unlawful” after the union ignored a back-to-work order issued over the weekend, following government intervention. The union, which represents the flight attendants, voted overwhelmingly in favor of the strike action, with 99.7% supporting the move. Their demands include better wages and compensation for unpaid work performed before flights depart.
Air Canada CEO Michael Rousseau labeled the union’s stance as “disappointing”. On the other hand, Union President Mark Hancock stated that members are prepared to risk imprisonment to secure fair compensation.
The strike commenced on Saturday morning at 1 a.m. ET. The government swiftly intervened, utilizing Section 107 of the Canada Labor Code to enforce binding arbitration. Nevertheless, union leaders publicly defied the order, tearing up copies of the directive at airport terminals and pledging to persist until their demands are met.
Passengers affected by the cancellations can request full refunds via Air Canada’s website or mobile app. The airline has coordinated with other carriers to provide alternative travel options when possible. However, rebooking is proving to be a challenge due to the high demand for summer travel.
Source: CBC News