May 1, 2023
Dear WestJet Skilled Trade Groups:
On April 28, 2023, AMFA received notice that WestJet had filed a Notice of Application for Judicial Review with the Canada Federal Court of Appeal. The Company intends to challenge the Canada Industrial Relations Board’s (“CIRB”) certification decision on the grounds that the decision is “unreasonable” and contrary to “principles of natural justice.” The appeal is entirely frivolous. Certification decisions by the CIRB are largely insulated from judicial review. The Company has re-asserted arguments expressly considered and rejected by the CIRB. Its appeal is designed to distract from the ongoing collective bargaining process.
The Company’s ploy will not work. AMFA is committed to improving WestJet working conditions, workplace culture, and aviation safety standards. Collective bargaining will continue, uninterrupted, as the Court of Appeals considers this case. AMFA reminds its WestJet members to complete Contract Proposal Forms, which can be downloaded on the WestJet page of the National Website.
Sincerely,
Bret Oestreich
National President
