Security Screeners Protest Unpaid Wages at 15 Atlantic Canada Airports
United Steelworkers Union members working as security screeners at 15 Atlantic Canada airports have initiated job action due to unpaid wages. The issue arose after a transition in screening services on April 1, when GardaWorld became the new contractor. According to Mark Arsenault, president of United Steelworkers Union Local 5319, employees were promised payment on April 18 but did not receive it.
As of present, some workers have yet to receive any compensation, leaving them facing financial hardship. Arsenault highlights that many employees rely on wages to cover essential expenses such as mortgages and child support. In response, some workers are protesting the pay discrepancies by deviating from the required uniform policy.
The Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA), the government agency responsible for issuing the contract, acknowledges the problem and states that it is due to a payroll issue affecting GardaWorld employees during the service transition. GardaWorld admits to a system and processing error that impacted employee payments. The company claims to have resolved most known issues and is working on addressing any remaining discrepancies promptly.
The Halifax Stanfield International Airport is monitoring the situation and remains in contact with CATSA. The airport encourages travelers to plan ahead and arrive early for flights to avoid any delays related to the security screening process.
The United Steelworkers Union maintains that the job action will continue until all members are paid in full. Despite warnings of disciplinary action, they remain determined to resolve the wage discrepancy. The workers emphasize that they simply seek fair compensation for their services.
