Need for respect brings passenger agents to IAM
Tuesday May 29, 2018
For Immediate Release
Calgary, AB – “These people had very simple needs, respect in the workplace and someone to give them a voice and they chose the IAM and we’re happy they did,” explains IAM Transportation District Lodge 140 General Chairperson Keith Aiken.
Two weeks ago, the Canadian Industrial Relations Board (CIRB) ordered a representational vote for the passenger service agents working for ATS at the Calgary Airport. The representational vote took place Monday May 28, 2018 and the IAM won the certification for 103 new IAM members.
“Organizing these types of servicing groups is difficult due to the high attrition rate,” explained IAM Transportation District Lodge 140 President and Directing General Chairperson Fred Hospes. “To organize in the province of Alberta makes these types of campaigns even more difficult. As such, this is really as big win for the IAM.”
“We had to dispel statements by the employer that workers would lose pay and their seniority if they joined the union,” said Aiken. “Our organizing team here jumped on that immediately assuring the workers this wasn’t true. They have been doing a wicked job for the IAM.”
This is the second group at ATS the IAM has organized within the last year. Fourteen Special Service Agents joined the IAM last November and have ratified their first collective agreement in April 2018.
The 103 passenger service agents provide check in and lost baggage services for United Airlines, Air Transat, Delta and KLM at Calgary International Airport.
The IAM is the largest union in Canada’s air transport sector.
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For further information:
Keith Aiken – IAM Transportation District Lodge 140 General Chairperson/Organizer
403-250-3708/403-921-8140
Bill Trbovich – IAM Director of Communications
416-386-1789 Ext #31/416-735-9765
