‘We want equal rights’
Ground crew workers strike may affect flights at Pearson, airport says
Travellers heading to Canada’s busiest airport were warned that a strike by hundreds of ground crew workers could affect some flights on Friday, but by mid-afternoon the labour the dispute had not created any major problems.
The striking workers at Toronto’s Pearson International Airport include baggage handlers, cargo handlers, cabin cleaners, some employees who tow planes and other ground crew.
Since voting overwhelmingly Thursday night to reject a deal with their employer, Swissport, the unionized workers have been walking picket lines, hoisting signs and calling for a fair contract.
Swissport services several major airlines at the airport, including Air Transat, Sunwing, British Airways, Cathay Pacific, Air France, KLM and Lufthansa.
The airport said the labour disruption could impact some flights and asked passengers to check the status of their flights.
Isaac Zonicle, a striking worker, said the labour dispute was more likely to have an effect later in the day on international flights serviced by Swissport.
“In the afternoon, you have multiple flights coming in from all over the world,” he said. “This is when you’re going to need all the knowledgeable people who know what’s going on.”
Asger Laursen, a passenger waiting for a flight to Copenhagen, said he wasn’t too worried about the labour dispute affecting his plans.
“They’re just protesting,” he said, noting that his airline, Icelandair, Striking workers are seen picketing at Pearson International Airport in Toronto. Approximately 700 ground crew workers at Pearson airport have walked off the job after rejecting the latest offer from Swissport. Picket lines have been set up at Pearson’s Terminal 3 and a cargo terminal near Swissport’s administrative offices.
Picket lines were set up outside Pearson’s Terminal 3, where those on strike were not impeding passengers, as well as at a cargo terminal near Swissport’s main offices. Striking workers were allowing traffic into the cargo terminal in intervals.
Teamsters Local 419, the union representing the workers, has said Swissport is attempting to
isn’t serviced by Swissport.
impose a three-year wage freeze on the majority of the workers, require staff to work a minimum of 30 hours a week to qualify for full benefits, and is seeking the right to change schedules with 96 hours advance notice.
Swissport said it has bargained in good faith throughout contract talks.
Shawn Lengiut, a striking ramp worker, said he’s angry at Swissport for trying to take away their
benefits.
“We’re out there in the rain, sleet, and snow, working hard so these passengers can get to their destinations on time,” he said. “We’re tired, we’re fed up, and we want equal rights.”
The Greater Toronto Airports Authority has said it has a contingency plan in place to deal with the labour dispute. Air Canada and WestJet are not serviced by Swissport.