Air Canada cargo agents reject deal

AROUND 66 per cent of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAMAW) members have rejected a tentative contract agreement with Air Canada.

At the same time, 78 per cent of the 8,600 cargo agents, mechanics and baggage handlers voted in favour of giving union negotiators a mandate to strike.

IAMAW union spokesman Bill Trbovich says union negotiators will likely meet to discuss their next move.

Air Canada says it is “business as usual” and is “confident that there is sufficient time for the parties to avoid a disruption”.

The union announced on 10 February that it had reached a tentative labour deal with the carrier, following concerns over proposals for starting a low-cost carrier and introducing pension reform.

The proposed four-year contract provided wage increases, improved benefits and secured a defined benefit pension fund for workers.