British Columbia Federation of Labour

Over 800 heavy aircraft maintenence jobs are disappearing from Air Canada's Vancouver operations.  Speakers at a rally today in Richmond to protest the lay-offs reminded protestors that Air Canada's decision has nothing to do with need, it's all about greed. Despite the downpour over 500 people attended the rally.

B.C. Federation of Labour secretary-treasurer Angela Schira, noted that last year Air Canada CEO Robert Milton pocketed a salary, benefits and stock options worth $7.5 million, despite the numerous concessions Air Canada's unionized workers implemented to keep the corporation afloat during tough times.

Despite Air Canada's 24 percent increase in operating income last year, the company has issued lay-off notices impacting 867 Vancouver area workers.  Instead of working to maintain these jobs in Canada, the corporation has lso announced their purchase of aircraft maintenence operations in El Salvador. 

"It say a lot about a company that saves itself from bankruptcy by asking Canadian workers to accept cuts, but when times are good Air Canada has no problem sending those same jobs to El Salvador," Schira said.

"Air Canada passengers have already seen what the company's bottom line means, less service and higher costs," added Schira.  "Not only do you have to pay two bucks for the peanuts, but more and more, despite the best efforts of it's workers peanuts is all passengers are getting for service.  And shipping jobs out of BC isn't going to make it any better."

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