According to Wesley Lomax, PSAC Union of Canadian Transportation Employees Local President, “our strike shows that there is a serious breach of security at the Airport. Since September 11, security had been tightened to avoid the presence of non authorized people near the installations. The Airport Authroity is hiring people that do not have the appropriate security clearance, and allowing them into secure areas. ”

“We would think this would be a concern, not only to Canadian passengers, but also to the American authorities who are receiving these Canadian flights,” said Mike Wing, UCTE National President. “When security is compromised, the public is at risk.”

The 20-some PSAC members have been on strike since February 2. Negotiations to reach a first collective agreement since the privatization of the Airport started in August 1999. The main issues in dispute are job security, safety and wages.

Airline passengers who are travelling through Saint John are advised to change their itineraries in order to avoid delays.

PSAC members at the Saint John Airport work as firefighters, airfield maintenance workers, electricians, building maintenance, computer services and administrative staff.

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For information : Wesley Lomax, PSAC UCTE Local 60615 - (506) 638-5576

Lise Thibodeau, regional representative PSAC - (506) 857-4220

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