Prince Rupert, B.C. – Stalled labour talks may ground services at Prince Rupert Airport.

 

Workers at the facility say they’re prepared to strike after negotiations with management broke down earlier this month. Public Service Alliance of Canada Regional Executive Vice President Kay Sinclair says the workers are ready to take action unless the employer drops its demand that employees work more hours without compensation.

 

"We are very close to a deal," says Sinclair, "With the help of a Conciliation Officer almost all the outstanding items, including wages, have been settled. But the Airport Authority insists that our members agree to work longer hours without being paid," she continues, "Management downsized the workforce by almost 50% over the last two years and now wants to increase the workday for the remaining employees by half an hour, without paying them for the time.”

 

Regional Vice President of the Union of Canadian Transportation Employees Stephen Dunsmore says members are stuck on Digby Island for their entire eight hour day and accuses management of taking advantage of the fact that they can’t leave for what he calls a “proper break”.

 

Dunsmore says the Airport Authority should return to the bargaining table to head off job action that could have serious consequences for Prince Rupert.

 

Members of PSAC/UCTE employed by the Prince Rupert Airport Authority as runway and terminal maintenance workers, fuellers, and administrative staff have been without a contract since November 2009. They voted in favour of strike action in March 2011.