In an IAM Executive Council meeting in Chicago, IL, the entire Council took the time to show support for the IAM members undergoing difficult negotiations.
“Every single IAM member across North America stands behind our members in Local Lodge 712,” said Brian Bryant, IAM International President. “What they are demanding is only fair and just. All Council members are behind you. Stay Strong!
The members in the Mirabel plant in Montreal, Quebec, overwhelmingly rejected Airbus’ latest wage increase proposal and voted in favour of a strike. Representing 1,300 out of 3,000 workers at Airbus’ Canadian plant, the members of Local 712 voted 99.6% against the contract and 98.9% in favour of striking.
Eric Rancourt, GLR, and principal negotiator for the IAM, said, “Not only was the salary increase below inflation, our members are also concerned about the company’s reduction in insurance and pensions. Frankly, the offer was downright unacceptable.”
David Chartrand, General Vice-President of the IAM in Canada, a member of Local Lodge 712, said, “Our members have made significant sacrifices to support the employer and the program when the company was facing great challenges. Now, they believe it is only fair to receive proper compensation, especially considering Airbus’ current international success.”
Airbus has seen significant success with orders coming from Egypt, Latvia, Australia and other smaller airlines.
Negotiations are set to resume on March 26th, 27th and 28th March.
LL712 members are taking part in solidarity actions throughout the plant. Here are some more photos from members who are participating. For more information, please visit www.aimta712.org, or their Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/AIM712Canada.
PHOTO (L to R):
Front – Gary Allen, GVP Western Territory, Brian Bryant, International President, Dora Cervantes, General Secretary-Treasurer, David Chartrand, Canadian General Vice-President, Richie Johnsen, Air Transport General Vice-President.
Back – Sam Cicinelli, General Vice-President Midwest Territory, Jody Bennett, Resident General Vice-President, Craig Martin, General Vice-President, Southern Territory, David Sullivan, General Vice-President Eastern Territory.
