A respectful workplace is the bare minimum workers come to expect when they arrive each day to complete their jobs. It is the responsibility of WestJet management to ensure harassment-free workplaces for all of its workers.

Unifor has an active union organizing drive involving certain employees at WestJet Toronto. Members of the employee organizing committee will be exercising their right to campaign in the workplace during non-working time, including paid and unpaid breaks, to promote the Unifor Union Advantage.

The targeting or threatening of any employee who is active in a union organizing drive violates their rights. We have instructed WestJet managerial staff of the Company's obligation to respect employees' freedom to organize and their rights and protections under the Canadian Labour Code and the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

The union can file an "Unfair Labour Practice Complaint" with the Labour Board, which in turn has the authority to order any remedy that it feels is appropriate and that addresses any violation of the Canada Labour Code under Sections 94, 96, 97 & 99 of the code.

It is because of this reason Unifor sent an email reminding WestJet management in Toronto of their responsibilities during a Union organizing drive. To be clear, WestJetters can talk about the union advantage at work before and after work and both paid and non-paid breaks and lunches.

In the ordinary course of the conversation, the law states that workers who have time to talk about such things as the "weather" or the "sports game" last night can not be restricted about using this same time to talk about the union. The law intends to ensure union activity does not impede the regular job duties of the individual.

While I understand that sometimes emotions will run high during a union organizing drive, many people will discuss why they support or oppose unionization. This is ok, and it is part of free speech. Let us be sure to be respectful to each other.

What is not ok is targeting individuals who support the union with unfounded lies and allegations of union payoffs of tens of thousands of dollars. To be clear, Unifor does not pay employees to bring the union into their workplace. Those making these hurtful and harassing comments about their colleagues are out of line with these unfounded allegations.

If we see bullying or unfounded accusations spread about people, we all have to stand up against these hurtful actions.

I encourage everyone to reach out to us at Unifor if you require clarity on the position or process of steps during a union organizing drive. Joining the union is about empowering workers to make effective changes in the workplace to improve workers' lives.

Through thoughtful and meaningful conversations, workers can be open and honest about their objectives or concerns about joining the union. Joining the union can bring us together to direct our future instead of creating a wedge that will enable complete control for Onex WestJet to decide the future.

Talk to your coworkers about signing a Unifor Membership card. It is time to take your seat at the table; they can do this at join.unifor.org/federalcard

Billy O'Neill, Unifor
[email protected] | 416-605-1443