Entering the Cooling-Off Period – What This Means for You
Dear Members,
We are writing to update you on an important next stage in the bargaining process.
The Conciliation phase under the Canada Labour Code has now concluded, and a conciliation report will now be issued. As a result, we have entered a 21-day cooling-off period beginning today, July 12,as required under federal law.
What This Means
The cooling-off period is a defined and time-limited phase in the federal bargaining process. It provides both parties with an opportunity to continue negotiations and reach an agreement before any legal job action can take place.
During this period:
Bargaining may continue at any time if both parties agree to participate, however neither party is obligated to as they were in other phases.
No strike or lockout can legally occur
The process moves into a clear and structured timeline
What This Means for You
There are no immediate changes to your work.
At the same time, this is a point in the process where members should:
Stay informed through official union communications
Begin thinking about what preparedness means for you personally
This is a serious stage, but it is also one where agreements are often reached.
Our Focus
Our focus remains unchanged: Achieve a fair agreement at the bargaining table that reflects our contributions to WestJet Groups success.
We will continue to keep you informed with clear, accurate updates as this process moves forward.
Questions & Answers
What triggered the cooling-off period?
The cooling-off period begins once the federal conciliation officer issues a formal report under the Canada Labour Code indicating that an agreement was not reached during conciliation.
How long does the cooling-off period last?
The cooling-off period is 21 calendar days, as set out in the Canada Labour Code.
Can bargaining still happen during this time?
Yes. The parties can continue to meet and negotiate at any point during the cooling-off period.
Can a strike or lockout happen now?
No. Strike or lockout activity is not legal during the cooling-off period.
What happens when the 21 days are over?
Once the cooling-off period ends:
The employer may legally initiate a lockout
The union may legally initiate strike action, provided all legal requirements are met
What steps need to happen before a strike could occur?
Before any strike action:
A strike vote must be held and passed
The union must provide advance notice (typically 72 hours)
Members will receive clear direction well in advance of any such step.
Does this mean a strike is going to happen?
No. Many agreements are reached during the cooling-off period.
This phase is intended to support resolution, it does not guarantee escalation.
Can the government intervene in this process?
In some cases, the federal government may take action outside the normal bargaining process, including legislation or referrals under the Canada Labour Code.
These are not routine steps, but they are part of the broader federal framework.
What should I be doing right now?
The most important things are:
Wear your Red Campaign lanyards.
Vote yes to authorize your Bargaining Committee to call a strike, if required.
Visit wjcomponent.ca/jobaction if you have questions about the process.
Continuing to work as scheduled.
Wear your Union pin.
Display your Unpaid Work Won't Fly luggage tag.
Participate in upcoming Informational Picket:
Tuesday, July 14 – YYC
Like, follow, and share the Local's social media.
Stay informed through official Union communications.
Reach out to your Bargaining/MESC Committee members if you have questions or concerns
We will continue to communicate and update you regularly as we move through this phase.
In Unity,
WestJet Mainline Bargaining Committee
YVR / YEG - Jeanfrancois Laframboise jeanfrancois.laframboise@wjcomponent.ca
YYC - Shane Campbell shane.campbell@wjcomponent.ca
YWG / YUL Cailey Millard cailey.millard@wjcomponent.ca
YYZ - Justin Patterson justin.patterson@wjcomponent.ca