Statement by the Honourable Lisa Raitt, Canada's Labour Minister
Ottawa, Ontario, April 20, 2012—I welcome the fact that representatives from Air Canada and the Air Canada Pilots Association have agreed to sit down together to discuss their outstanding issues with the intent to reach an agreement. Dialogue and cooperation are key to developing and maintaining strong labour‑management relations, which in turn benefit Canadian economic prosperity and stability.
The Government of Canada took action to protect the economy, Canadians and the travelling public through Bill C-33, An Act to provide for the continuation and resumption of air service operations, which received Royal Assent onMarch 15, 2012. I will appoint an arbitrator shortly. As the legislation permits, the employer and the union can continue or resume their discussions, as nothing prevents them from reaching an agreement of their own before a decision is rendered by an arbitrator. The best solution in any dispute is one that the parties reach themselves.
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This statement is available in alternative formats upon request.
For further information (media only)
Ashley Kelahear
Press Secretary
Office of Minister Raitt
819-953-5646
Media Relations Office
Human Resources and
Skills Development Canada
819-994-5559
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