As many of you may have heard, negotiations between CUPE, the Union representing the Air Canada flight attendants and the employer came to an abrupt halt a few weeks ago.  Our contacts tell us that there have been no discussions since.  As a result, CUPE members will be taking a strike vote on September 14 & 15, 2011.  If the vote is in favour of a strike (and CUPE believes that they will have a strong mandate for it), CUPE will serve Air Canada 72-hour notice on September 16, 2011, thereby having picket lines at all Canadian airports on September 20, 2011.  UCTE wishes CUPE members success in their strike and hope that an agreement can be reached quickly.  Should the picket lines be up, I encourage each of you to support our brothers and sisters and join them on the picket lines whenever possible.

What does this means for UCTE?

Our union principles dictate that we will not cross a picket line and will support our brothers and sisters in the labour movement.

Unfortunately this action may affect our upcoming Convention.  The National Executive and National office staff are in the process of considering other options including changing modes of travel for those delegates travelling by air or rescheduling the convention to a later date.

I want to assure you that we are closely monitoring the situation and will advise you on Tuesday September 21, 2011whether our convention must be postponed.  I ask that you ensure that the National Office has your correct contact information – both phone and e-mail addresses - so we can contact each of you directly should it be necessary.

Thank you for your understanding and in the meantime if you have any questions, please contact your Regional Vice-President.

In Solidarity,

Christine Collins

National President