Bargaining Update #19 - Notice of Dispute Issued

WestJet Mainline
Written By Chris Amaddeo

Dear Members,

As of April 27th, at 10:00am MT your WestJet Mainline Bargaining Committee filed a Notice of Dispute and a Request for Conciliation assistance from the Canadian Industrial Relations Board.

This is the next step of the federal bargaining process under the Canada Labour Code. It means that we are moving into a structured and time-bound phase with the goal of making progress at the table by seeking the assistance of a neutral third party.

The Bargaining Committee has made a measured decision to proceed to this next phase.

This reflects our obligation to act responsibly on behalf of the membership as discussions to date have not yet resulted in company proposals that adequately address our key priorities.

What This Means

  • We are entering the next formal stage of negotiations under the Canada Labour Code.

  • A Federal Conciliation officer will be appointed within 14 days to assist the parties in coming closer together to reach a deal at the table.  

  • As per the Canada Labour Code, conciliation lasts 60 days and can be extended upon mutual agreement of both Parties.  

What It Means for You

  • Right now, your role is to be engaged and unified. Our fight is for better wages, working conditions, and compensation that reflects our value as Cabin Personnel.

  • Our strength at the table has always come from our Membership and the priorities you’ve set. As we move into the next phase, that same unity and engagement will be central to moving this forward.

  • Our focus remains getting gains at the Bargaining Table. Our commitment is to remain there and negotiate an outcome that we deserve.

FAQ - Notice of Dispute / Conciliation – Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is a Notice of Dispute?

A Notice of Dispute is a formal step in the federal bargaining process. It signals that the parties have not yet reached an agreement and are moving into conciliation with the assistance of a government-appointed third-party neutral Conciliator. The goal of this process is to bring both Parties (the Union and the Company) closer to getting a deal.  

2. Does this mean bargaining has broken down?

No. Bargaining continues during this phase. Conciliation is designed to help the parties reach an agreement with the support of a neutral third party.

3. What happens after a Notice of Dispute is filed?

  • A conciliation officer is appointed within 14 days.  

  • Bargaining continues with both parties to attempt to reach a deal at the table for a minimum of 60 days and can be extended by mutual agreement of both Parties.  If this were to occur the Union would advise all members.

  • If no Tentative Agreement is reached, the process can move to a “21-day cooling-off period.”  If this were to occur the Union would advise all members.

4. What is the 21-day cooling-off period?

This is a legally required period after conciliation ends. During this time, no strike or lockout can occur. Negotiations can continue, if the Parties mutually agree to meet.  

5. Could a strike or lockout happen?

Job action (strike or lockout) is only possible after multiple steps are completed, including conciliation, a cooling-off period, and a strike vote.

6. What should I be doing right now?

Right now, the most important things are:

  • Stay informed through union communications and wear your Union Pin.  

  • Ask questions to your Bargaining and MESC Committee Representatives.  

  • Begin thinking about personal preparedness as we move through this process.

  • Sharing official Union material is the safest way to engage on social media. Avoid creating or posting your own content.

  • Continue providing exemplary service to our guests.

7. Will we be told what to do if the situation changes?

Yes. You will receive clear guidance in advance of any potential next steps. We will not leave you guessing.  

8. Where can I get updates?

All official updates will come directly from your Union through established communication channels. Be cautious of rumours or unofficial sources including news outlets. Make sure you are following the accounts below and sign up for updates so you can access information quickly.  

The Official Communication channels of the Union are the following:

In Unity, (Be Ready)  

WestJet Mainline Bargaining Committee

Chris Amaddeo
Next

Bargaining Update #18 - Seven Months at the Table - Where We Are