February 6, 2017
IMP Group International Inc.
Head Office
David A. Gossen
President, IMP Aerospace & Defence
2651 Joseph Howe Drive
Halifax, Nova Scotia
B3L 4T1
Dear M. Gossen,
We are writing to you in light of the current state of negotiations, or lack thereof, at the bargaining table with members of the Union of National Defence Employees (UNDE), a Component of the Public Service Alliance of Canada (PSAC).
The collective agreements for the 85 employees who work in Gander, NL (local 90120) and Comox, BC (local 21018) expired on June 30, 2015. The main issues focus around fixing the wage gap, improving sick leave, maintaining the current 40-hour work schedule, improving retirement savings contributions, and fairly assigning the work. By proposing concessions on existing terms and conditions, the employer is putting at risk the safety of the employees, the aircrafts, and their operators, thereby jeopardizing rescue missions.
Our members take great pride in the work they do and they expect their employer will in turn take pride in its employees and treat them fairly. Our members’ demands are fair and reasonable. Wage parity with other employees doing the same work for the same employer is fair. Not requiring employees go to work sick is sensible. Maintaining the current 40-hour work week is reasonable. They are not seeking to be ranked among Canada’s richest people, they are simply seeking to be compensated equitably for the work they do.
We will not stand by without taking action. The Public Service Alliance of Canada represents well over 180,000 members across the country from coast to coast to coast and we have mounted successful campaigns around search and rescue. Although we believe, and sincerely hope, we can come to a fair settlement quickly, we are also prepared to represent our members to the best of our abilities.
Sincerely,
Jeannie Baldwin John MacLennan
Regional Executive Vice-President National President
PSAC-Atlantic UNDE
cc.: Debbie McLaughlin, Regional Coordinator
Stephen Plummer, Group President and Chief Executive Officer
Despite all the magic of social media, letters still pack a serious punch. A letter to the editor, to an MP, to your municipal councilor can make important inroads. PSAC members know more than almost anyone about the public services we provide, and we are best equipped to speak up and write up when these services are under attack.