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The labour dispute between WestJet and its aircraft mechanics is heading to binding arbitration.
The federal Minister of Labour Seamus O’Regan directed the Canada Industrial Relations Board (CIRB) on Thursday to assist the airline and the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA) with efforts to reach a first contract for the company’s workers.
“As Westjet and AMFA work toward their first collective agreement, it is my firm believe that a strong collective bargaining relationship can be built. I will support the parties in any way that I can help them form that partnership,” states O’Regan.
The move averts for the second time in two weeks a possible strike.
The union issued notice earlier this week of a possible walkout as early as Friday evening.
It came a day into a resumption of contract talks, agreed upon last week that pre-empted a previous strike deadline of last Thursday.
In both cases, Westjet announced plans to cancel flights.
Westjet and AMFA’s decision to enter binding arbitrations means any strike or lockout will not occur.
“With the government’s actions, the summer travel plans of Canadians have been protected and we have a path to resolution,” says Diederik Pen, President of WestJet Airlines and Group Chief Operating Officer.
WestJet says it is now ramping up operations as quickly and efficiently as possible, after announcing late Wednesday night to cancel 25 flights, impacting about 3,300 air travellers.
