Tag Archives: Union

IAM Canada – IAM Union opposes any privatization at Canada’s airports

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In the 2024 Federal Budget, there was a reference to privatization of parts of Canadian Airports. At the time, the IAM Union sought out clarification and held meetings with the Federal Labour Ministers office and the office of the Finance Minister to seek further clarification and advise the Federal Government that the IAM Union was against any privatization whatsoever at Canadian Airports. This past week, the Federal Government provided a policy statement on their intentions with regards to privatization at Canadian airports.

As the federal government continues to push for privatization efforts across Canada’s airports, the IAM Union is calling for a firm stand against this dangerous trend, warning of the detrimental effects it could have on Canadian workers, travelers, and the economy.

David Chartrand, General Vice-President at the IAM Union in Canada, expressed deep concerns over the federal government’s growing encouragement of privatization in Canada’s aviation sector. He emphasized that such actions would suppress wages for airport workers and only serve to line the pockets of private corporations at the expense of Canadian workers and the public.

“Privatization will undermine the quality of services that travelers rely on, from increased fees to reduced accessibility, this isn’t just about workers; this is about the entire Canadian aviation industry. We cannot allow private corporations to prioritize their profits over the needs of the public.” said David Chartrand.

Chartrand further explained that privatizing airports would, decrease job security, and lead to higher costs for travelers, all while enriching private companies.

Airport services should remain under public control to ensure that profits are reinvested into improving services for travelers and strengthening the economy. Public ownership of airports ensures that they are run efficiently, with the needs of Canadians at the forefront.

The IAM represents over 10,000 members across Canada in the aviation industry, we call on both the federal government and airport authorities to halt any moves toward privatization and to focus on investing in the workers and infrastructure that make Canada’s airports a vital part of the country’s transportation network.

The IAM Union is one of North America’s largest and most diverse industrial trade unions, representing approximately 600,000 active and retired members in the aerospace, defense, airlines, railroad, transit, healthcare, automotive, and other industries across North America.

IAM Canada – IAM Union Condemns Trump’s 25% Tariffs on Canada

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Brian Bryant, International President of the 600,000-member IAM Union, and David Chartrand, IAM Canadian General Vice President, issued the following statement regarding President Trump’s 25% tariffs on Canada:

“The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) Union strongly condemns the Trump administration’s reckless decision to impose a 25% tariff on all Canadian imports. This harmful action threatens jobs, raises prices, and undermines the long-standing economic partnership between the United States and Canada.

“The IAM has always supported trade policies that protect and grow jobs in both nations. But these tariffs are an unjustified attack on a trusted ally.

“Canada is not the enemy. Canada is committed to fair trade practices that support workers and communities. This decision will disrupt industries that rely on integrated supply chains, hurting workers on both sides of the border.

“The IAM represents 600,000 workers, including tens of thousands in aerospace, defense, and manufacturing—industries that depend on strong U.S.-Canada cooperation. These tariffs will destabilize those sectors, putting livelihoods and our nations’ economies at risk.

“As our union has said previously, tariffs should be used strategically to counter bad actors, like China, that manipulate markets and undermine fair trade.

“Targeting Canada with punitive tariffs is not only misguided, but dangerous. It weakens North American industry and puts working families in jeopardy.

“We urge President Trump to immediately reconsider these tariffs and pursue trade policies that strengthen, rather than weaken, the economic relationship between the United States and Canada.”

The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) is one of North America’s largest and most diverse industrial trade unions, representing approximately 600,000 active and retired members in the aerospace, defense, airlines, railroad, transit, healthcare, automotive, and other industries across the United States and Canada.

IAM UNION – IAM Union members rally against Bill 89

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Members of IAM Union Locals in Montreal recently gathered to rally against Bill 89, a measure imposed with the potential to politicize labour relations and disrupt fair negotiations. The proposed bill aims to suspend the right to strike, undermining the critical balance of power between workers and employers. This right is not simply a tool of leverage; it is an essential safeguard that allows workers to protect their interests when negotiations become unbalanced.

By weakening this fundamental right, the government risks disarming workers, leaving them vulnerable to further exploitation by employers. If this bill is passed, it could lead to long-term damage to labour relations, erode trust, and ultimately result in worsened working conditions, lower productivity, and a decline in the quality of goods and services. IAM members are fighting to defend the rights that ensure fair treatment and dignity in the workplace.

The rally highlights the deep concerns of union members, who understand that strikes are not undertaken lightly. They are a last resort, a necessary tool for workers to secure better wages, safer conditions, and greater respect. Strikes have never been about causing harm to the public; they are about standing up for what is fair and just.

IAM Union – Union-Led Advisory Table paves the way for a fairer future for Canada’s workers

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In a bid to address the challenges facing workers in an ever-evolving labour market, the Union-Led Advisory Table (ULAT) has brought together labour leaders from across Canada to advise the government on key labour and ministerial priorities. This unique initiative aims to ensure that the voices of workers are heard and that the needs of Canada’s workforce are addressed in policy decisions.

David Chartrand, General Vice-President of the IAM Union in Canada, was appointed in 2023 to the advisory table, where he works alongside 14 other dedicated members.

Together, they help guide the Canadian government in making informed decisions that benefit workers. The members are selected for their deep knowledge of the labour market, with a particular emphasis on equity, diversity, and inclusion. These leaders are recognized not only for their expertise in labour issues but also for their outstanding leadership within their communities and beyond.

The ULAT is a critical response to the changing nature of work, where technology, globalization, and shifting economic conditions are transforming industries at a rapid pace.

The advisory table’s mandate ended on October 31, 2024. Following this, the 2025 Unions Power Prosperity Report, which outlines key issues and recommendations, is now available. You can find it here.