WestJet has released that it received confirmation that the Minister of Labour has instructed the Canada Industrial Relations Board (CIRB) to assist WestJet and the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA) in finalising their first collective agreement. The CIRB has acknowledged receipt and initiated the process.
WestJet and AMFA will enter final binding arbitration to settle the remaining terms of the collective agreement. The airline appreciates the Minister’s directive aimed at securing industrial peace, and AMFA has agreed to comply. Consequently, there will be no strike or lockout, and the airline will no longer proceed with flight cancellations.
“With the government’s actions, the summer travel plans of Canadians have been protected and we have a path to resolution,” said Diederik Pen, President of WestJet Airlines and Group Chief Operating Officer. “We recognise the significant impact the initial cancellations continue to have on our guests and our people, and we sincerely appreciate their patience and understanding as we resume operations.”
WestJet is working to ramp up its operations as quickly and efficiently as possible while ensuring the highest degree of safety.
