The decision came as a strike by nearly 10,000 flight attendants paralyzed Air Canada’s air system and affected more than 130,000 passengers a day. The strike resulted in hundreds of flights being canceled and thousands of passengers facing difficulties at the country’s major airports. Federal Minister of Industry and Employment Patty Hajo said the government’s move was necessary to protect passengers and the economy because the strike had severely affected air travel. After the government’s decision, the staff will have to return to work, while the matter will be referred to a neutral arbitrator to resolve the dispute, who will review the positions of both parties and reach an agreement.
The flight attendants’ union was demanding that they be paid for the time before the plane takes off and after landing, while Air Canada only pays when the plane is in motion. The company had offered a total of 38 percent salary increase over four years, but the union called it insufficient and took the position that the increase was low compared to rising inflation.
The union criticized the government’s decision, saying that this move is a violation of their constitutional right to strike and that the government has prioritized the company’s interests. On the other hand, business circles and passengers have appreciated the government’s move and called it necessary to protect the economy and travel convenience. The government’s decision is expected to soon restore Air Canada flights and facilitate rebooking or refunds for affected passengers, however, the final resolution of the dispute will now depend on the decision of the arbitrator.