WestJet flight attendants’ union serves notice to begin bargaining

The union representing WestJet flight attendants says it has notified the airline of its intention to start contract negotiations, reports the Globe and Mail.

In a press statement, CUPE Local 8125 announced it has served notice to bargain a new collective agreement, with the current deal set to expire on Dec. 31.

According to the union, WestJet flight attendants want fair compensation for work they say often goes unpaid.

The release added that cabin crew across Canada are also pressing for improved treatment on the job.

READ MORE: Ottawa outlines next steps in probe of unpaid airline work

The update follows recent developments at Air Canada, where flight attendants turned down their employer’s latest wage proposal after striking in August over similar issues.

On Tuesday, dozens of Air Canada attendants rallied on Parliament Hill with NDP labour critic Alexandre Boulerice.

“WestJet flight attendants are skilled professionals and deserve to be paid for every task they perform — from pre-boarding safety checks to post-flight duties,” said CUPE 8125 president Alia Hussain. “Unpaid work isn’t acceptable, and it’s time to put a stop to it.”

A WestJet spokesperson confirmed the company had received CUPE’s notice earlier in the day and said it looks forward to productive discussions at the bargaining table.

On Monday, Jobs Minister Patty Hajdu said the federal review into reports of unpaid work in Canada’s airline industry is expected to conclude by early December.

Hajdu launched the investigation in August following a labour dispute at Air Canada that grounded flights, disrupting the travel plans of some 500,000 customers.

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