May 2024
Q: I keep hearing a buyout could be in the talk with the integration of Sunwing employees and before contract renewal. Is that true? And if so; when could that be offered? Thank you
A:We currently have no information to share regarding potential buyouts. Integration with Sunwing is still ongoing, and no discussions about buyouts have taken place between CUPE and WestJet. We will be sure to communicate any official developments about buyouts if they arise.
Q: ‘37 Cabin Managers coming. Why? For almost 30 years, we have survived without them. Apparently there is a consensus that new flight attendants require some direction. This is easily solved by offering adequate training. Bring back line indocs. Our training has been more and more and more abbreviated every single year. We are asked to do more learning on our own and receive less direction, especially for service. Instead of assigning police, offer us better training.
A: We hear your concerns about the introduction of Cabin Managers (CMs) on the 737. The company has shared its position desiring the introduction of a leadership role on the 37, however those details would need to be reconciled with the current Collective agreement, and bargained in the next CA or, if it's a matter that finds its way to the CIRB, there.
Regarding the training concerns - Line indocs have never been discontinued - Follow Up Flights (FUF) were discontinued, and a group line indoc was implemented in its place.
To further advocate for improved training, we encourage you to submit an IHR. Detailed reports are crucial in supporting the Union's push for better training programs, particularly when it relates to safety concerns.
Q: Cabin and flight crew have been banned from the hotel in PUJ due to inappropriate behaviour.
A: This rumour is false. We can assure you this is not the case, and we maintain layovers at the same PUJ hotel.
Q: Why are we considered safety professionals but not paid for safety related duties? Should we consider keeping cupe if even after going to the government we are still not compensated properly? How did Wedtjet get on the best Forbes jobs when as new flight attendants we are making below 30k a year?
A: Flight Attendants are safety professionals, but some ground duties lack compensation due to outdated practices. CUPE is fighting for fair pay for all our work, including safety-related tasks. Learn more about the "Unpaid Work Won't Fly" campaign at https://unpaidworkwontfly.ca.
The Forbes "Best Employers" list uses a limited survey (less than 1% of Canadians) which may not reflect WestJet's reality, especially for new hires under $30k. Fair compensation remains a priority for CUPE in upcoming negotiations.
Q: If I’ve heard it once I’ve heard it a thousand times on the line “I talked with a union rep and they said Sunwing FAs will definitely get their seniority” Is there people in our union actually fueling the fire that is going on right now with the Sunwing merger?
A: We know there is a lot of discussion about Sunwing Flight Attendant seniority in relation to the merger. It's important to understand that this is a complex issue that has not been finalized yet.
Seniority will ultimately be determined by a legal framework that considers established precedents. While past cases in Canada may provide some guidance, the final decision on Sunwing FA seniority will depend on the specific details of the merger and the legalities involved. We are actively working on this matter and will provide an update when one becomes available.
Q: One-crew concept will soon be back to mainline, just like encore? Is it true that Encore FAs who flowed will again be screwed up by this Sunwing merger in terms of seniority?
A: There's currently no information about one-crew concept returning to mainline, similar to Encore. We will keep you updated through official channels if anything changes. We understand concerns exist regarding the Sunwing merger and Encore Flight Attendant seniority. Once finalized, this topic will be addressed in detail through upcoming official communication. Stay tuned for more information.
Q: The new sick time attendance program. I can bank up to 22 sick days but if I have to use more than 13 in a 12 month rolling period I get put on a program?!
A: This was clarified in a recent communication and company town hall (link). We recommend reviewing both for details. We're actively reviewing the program with legal advisors and will challenge any violations of your rights under the Collective Agreement or Canada Labour Code. We understand your concerns and will keep you updated.