Tag Archives: Canada

IAM Canada – Bearskin Ramp Members Ratify 3-Year Deal with Strong Improvements

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IAM members working on the ramp at Bearskin Airlines in Thunder Bay and Sioux Lookout have voted in favour of a new three-year collective agreement that secures financial improvements and enhanced working conditions.

Highlights of the agreement include a 2.4% wage increase on ratification, followed by 2.2% in Year 2 and 2% in Year 3. Members will also receive a signing bonus of $300 for full-time employees and $100 for part-time employees.

The deal introduces an On-Call Deicing premium of $30 per day for those on the list, increased pension contributions after 15 years of service, and enhancements to boot allowance and cold weather gear.

“This deal addresses key issues our members raised, from fair compensation to better support in difficult weather conditions,” said Chris Greniuk, General Chairperson at IAM Union. “It’s a solid step forward that recognizes the value and commitment of our ramp workers.”

This deal strengthens protections and support for ramp workers, reflecting the IAM union’s ongoing commitment to their safety and well-being.

IAM Canada – Flight Attendants at Wasaya Airways Ratify New Deal

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IAM-represented Flight Attendants at Wasaya Airways in Thunder Bay and Sioux Lookout have ratified a three-year collective agreement that includes significant wage increases, cost-of-living protection, and quality-of-life improvements.

The new contract introduces a new pay scale with Consumer Price Index (CPI) protection, ensuring wages adjust alongside inflation. Members will receive a 4% increase on ratification, followed by 1.5–3% increases in Years 2 and 3, tied to the Ontario CPI.

Other highlights include enhanced pension contributions based on years of service, 10 federal sick days with the option to cash out up to 5 unused days annually, increased per diems and shoe/boot allowances, and a new additional day off in a 28-day block after 5 years of service.

“This agreement recognizes the demanding work our flight attendants do and the challenges they face,” said Chris Greniuk, General Chairperson at IAM Union. “We’re proud to secure not only fair pay increases and inflation protection but also improvements that support their well-being and work-life balance.”

With this agreement, IAM members continue to make progress toward fair compensation and a safer, more supportive workplace.

IAM Canada – Strike Committee Gathers to Prepare for Potential Collective Action

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Members of the Strike Committee recently convened at Local 1751 to discuss the strategic plan ahead and clarify the roles and responsibilities of each participant. This meeting marks the start of essential preparation in anticipation of potential collective action.

Attending the meeting were Nasr Kairouz, Samir Zahabi, Vincent Constantineau, James Murray, Costa Kripouris, Nicolas Piecharski, Jesenia Morales, Perpetua Okpanachi, Benoit Demers, and Léo Giuliani.

The Strike Committee holds a pivotal role within the organization. Its primary mission is to prepare and coordinate members’ efforts in the event of a labour dispute. By fostering unity and ensuring readiness, the committee helps members act together effectively and communicate their collective voice clearly.

To achieve this, the committee establishes necessary structures, organizes resources, supports communication among members, and plans actions both before and during a potential strike. When active job action occurs, the committee functions as the central coordination body — overseeing team organization, communication, logistical support, and maintaining relationships with the community and the media. It may also set up a Strike Headquarters, a space where decisions are made and strategies are adjusted in real time.

This initial meeting laid the foundation for the work ahead, emphasizing the importance of careful preparation. Clear organization, effective communication, and structured mobilization were highlighted as key elements to protect and advance members’ interests with determination and coherence.

In the photo: from left to right — Nasr Kairouz, Jesenia Morales, Benoît Demers, Vincent Constantineau.