Workers at Jazz Aviation and Exploits Valley Air Services oppose service reduction announcement

TORONTO, June 30, 2020 /CNW/ - Jazz Aviation and EVAS represented by Unifor Local 2002 are disappointed with Air Canada's major reduction in services announcement.

 "Airline workers should not have to continue to bear the burden of this global pandemic's economic effects due to ongoing travel restrictions," said Jerry Dias, Unifor National President. "What workers need is for the federal government to take immediate action to develop an effective airlines strategy that preserves Canadian jobs." 

The reduction in service was announced because of ongoing COVID-19 travel restrictions as part of the government's pandemic response. Air Canada announced today that approximately thirty routes have been cancelled and eight airport stations will be closed indefinitely.  

"We fully understand the difficult situation the pandemic has created for the global industry, but our airline workers are counting on the Prime Minister to take leadership to support and preserve Canada's airline industry,said Euila Leonard, President of Unifor Local 2002.

On March 28, 2020, Unifor joined with other Canadian airline unions in sharing concerns and providing solutions to help bring stability and prosperity back to the industry. Unifor has specifically called on the government to ensure that any aid package delivered to any sector, including air travel, must be accompanied by strong, enforceable conditions that ensure funds are dedicated to maintaining current workers' income and creating new opportunities for employment.

Unifor is Canada's largest union in the private sector and represents 315,000 workers in every major area of the economy. The union advocates for all working people and their rights, fights for equality and social justice in Canada and abroad, and strives to create progressive change for a better future.

Information about the union's response to the pandemic, as well as resources for members can be found at unifor.org/COVID19.

SOURCE Unifor