Statement from CUPE 8111 on flight attendant layoffs at Canadian North

OTTAWA, Ontario--(BUSINESS WIRE)--CUPE 8111 President Isabelle Paquette made the following statement regarding layoffs at Canadian North:

"We are deeply concerned about the potential layoffs of 13 flight attendants across in Edmonton, Calgary, and Ottawa. It is especially devastating for our members to face such uncertainty so close to the holiday season.

"We are actively working with the company to explore every possible option to minimize job losses and to provide meaningful support to affected flight attendants during this difficult time.

"Our flight attendants are deeply passionate about their work, the North, and the passengers they serve. Our members hold strong personal connections with the communities and travelers they support, making the impact of these potential job losses especially profound.

"The recent hiring of a new class of flight attendants had offered hope for renewed growth at our airline, making this news especially disheartening.

"As we approach the busy holiday season, adequate staffing is a concern to ensure flights operate without delays. Understaffing could negatively affect passengers at a time when fatigue, weather related delays, and seasonal illnesses are common challenges during this period.

"While these layoffs affect staffing at Canadian North's southern bases for now, these reductions could have an impact across all bases.

"Many of our flight attendants have dedicated the majority of their careers to Canadian North. The uncertainty our members are experiencing threatens the sense of stability within our workforce and risks driving experienced employees to seek opportunities elsewhere.

"This is a difficult time for all flight attendants at Canadian North. Our coworkers become like family in a group as tight knit as ours. We will continue to advocate for and support all our flight attendants through this challenging time."