Canadian Organizing

Most all of the information contained in the brochures listed in this section applies to Canadian pilots. However, there are some distinct differences regarding Canadian labour laws.

• The agency that governs pilot Union activity in Canada is the Canadian Industrial Relations Board.

• As with US pilots, Canadian pilots have the legal right to Unionize. However, the CIRB has an internal procedure (Unfair Labour Practice) to deal with any unlawful activity by the operator during the organizing process, unlike the NMB where many unlawful acts by the operator must go through the court system.

• The CIRB has a process that allows for pilots to request “Automatic Recognition”. If a minimum of 55% of the pilots who are seeking representation sign membership cards and submit a $5.00 membership fee they can be granted certification without having an election. If they do go to an election they must win by 50% plus one of who votes, not of who is eligible to vote, as in the US.

• The CIRB does provide Mediation services. However, should the parties reach impasse the Union can request Interest Arbitration and the Operator cannot refuse.