Merger Update 001
Important Update: CIRB Process and Rights/Obligations Regarding Business Sales and Mergers
Dear Members,
The Union Executive would like to update you on some information regarding the Sunwing Integration.
In early February WestJet has filed an application with the Canadian Industrial Relations Board (CIRB) to start movement on the legal steps required to begin the Legal integration of the Sunwing Flight Attendants group into the WestJet (WS) Cabin Crew group.
CIRB PROCESS:
The Canada Industrial Relations Board (CIRB) plays a significant role in overseeing labor relations matters, particularly during times of business transformation such as sales of business and mergers. The CIRB is responsible for administering and interpreting the Canada Labour Code (CLC), which governs labor relations in federally regulated industries. Click on link below to learn more about the CIRB or the Canada Labour Code
Canada Industrial Relations Board (cirb-ccri.gc.ca)
Canada Labour Code (justice.gc.ca)
CONSULTATION AND REPRESENTATION:
We are Committed to representing our Members’ interests throughout any discussions or negotiations involving the Sunwing Integration. Your Local Executive Board has taken several steps to ensure our Members’ rights and interests are represented.
EXTERNAL LEGAL REPRESENTATION: We have retained external Legal counsel representing Local 4070 throughout this process. Michael Church works with the established firm of Caley and Wray and has extensive experience in Federal regulated environments, Federal Mergers and Labour law.
NEW CUPE NATIONAL ADVISOR ON STAFF: Robert Limongelli has joined our Team in an Advisory/consultive capacity as we navigate the process. As a President at the time of a well-known Merger (Air Canada /Canadian) he shares his guidance, support and wisdom to his lived experiences.
MERGER COMMITTEE: As a Local comprised of 3 Airlines, we recognize that the need for appropriate consultation with all Internal groups is part of Local 4070's responsibility. Election voting will begin soon. Nominations are now open, please see the elections email that was sent out earlier today.
STAY INFORMED and ENGAGED:
It's important for all members to stay informed about developments related to the CIRB process and the Seniority discussions, and Integration. Consider engagement ideas below:
Encourage your co-workers to sign up for emails on the website.
Reference resource links and take the time to learn about the process. This is a process that is legally governed.
While social media platforms provide avenues for discussion, it's important to note that information shared may not always be fact-checked. Additionally, your Local Executives may not always be able to consistently participate or engage on these platforms.
We encourage you to reach out to your Local Executives through the Contact Form for any inquiries or concerns, ensuring efficient and reliable communication channels with your representatives. It is your Union Executives' commitment to keep members engaged as often and wherever possible. We will continue to provide updates and information as they become available.
CONDUCT
We would like to remind all our Members the importance of maintaining professionalism and respectful conduct, both online and offline. It's important to remember that interactions within chat groups or public forums are subject to the same standards outlined in our Workplace Harassment and Violence policy and the Business Code of Conduct.
Engaging in behavior that is disrespectful, offensive, or harassing towards colleagues or the organization itself, whether on social media platforms or in group chats, or in the workplace can result in disciplinary action. It is essential to treat others with dignity and respect, regardless of the communication channel used.
As we navigate through these processes together, we will continue to provide updates. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us using the contact form.