More than 9,000 members of the Public Service Alliance of Canada (PSAC) employed by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) have voted overwhelmingly in favour of strike action, the union announced yesterday. The decision comes amidst a busy travel season and could potentially lead to significant disruptions at airports and land borders across the country.
PSAC, representing the Border Services (FB) group, reported that 96% of its members voted to authorize strike action, a move they describe as a last resort. Union President Chris Aylward emphasized that the primary issue driving the strike mandate is the alignment of CBSA wages with those of other law enforcement agencies. “Our members have been clear; they deserve parity with their counterparts in other law enforcement agencies,” Aylward stated.
The federal government responded by underscoring its commitment to achieving a fair and reasonable agreement for border services employees. In a statement, the Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat (TBS) noted that they have already secured renewed agreements with over 80% of the public service. “We are fully committed to reaching a fair agreement for Border Services employees and are prepared to return to the bargaining table at any time,” the statement read.
The Border Services Group consists of approximately 11,000 positions at the CBSA, primarily involved in the inspection and control of people and goods entering Canada. Of these, over 9,500 are represented by PSAC, with 90% of them occupying roles deemed essential.
The government highlighted several imminent opportunities for both parties to progress towards an agreement. By the end of May, recommendations from the Public Interest Commission, an independent body, will be made available to guide negotiations. Mediation sessions are scheduled to begin on June 3, which the government believes could pave the way for a resolution without the need for a strike.
“The best agreements are reached at the bargaining table. Rather than planning for disruption, PSAC should focus on negotiation so we can reach an agreement as quickly as possible that is fair to employees and taxpayers,” the TBS statement continued. The government also reassured Canadians that despite the strike mandate, the essential services designation ensures that the majority of border services will remain operational.
Aylward, however, insists that the strike mandate was necessary to push for fair compensation and working conditions. “We are ready and willing to negotiate in good faith, but our members are prepared to take action if needed,” he said. “The government must come to the table with a serious offer that addresses the wage disparities and respects the critical work our members do.”
As the busy summer travel season approaches, the possibility of a strike raises concerns about potential delays at airports and land border crossings. The union’s call for parity with other law enforcement agencies highlights the broader issue of wage fairness and the importance of border services employees in maintaining national security and efficient travel.
Travelers are advised to stay informed about the situation as it develops, with both sides hoping to avoid a strike that could impact millions of Canadians. The next few weeks will be crucial in determining whether a fair agreement can be reached without resorting to job action.
Negotiations continue, with the government expressing optimism that an agreement can be reached through upcoming mediation sessions. The outcome will significantly affect not only the employees of the CBSA but also the smooth operation of Canada’s border services during a peak travel period.