Machinists’ News

On this Day of Mourning, let’s make all Canadians safer

Thursday, April 28, 2016     On Thursday, April 28th, the flag on Parliament Hill will fly at half-mast and people across the country will light candles, don ribbons and remember colleagues, friends and family who have been killed because of workplace-related hazards and incidents.   We can’t bring back those who have died, but we are working hard to make workplaces safer today. That’s why this April 28th, Canadian

Tragedy at Toronto Pearson International Airport

Toronto, ON – The ramp at Toronto Pearson International Airport is still a somber place following the tragic accident that took the life of IAM Local Lodge 2323 member, Ian Henrey late Friday evening. “Our thoughts and our prayers go out to his family and his co-workers,” said IAM Transportation District 140 President and General Chairperson Fred Hospes. Henrey, 24, an Air Canada Station Attendant, was killed when the baggage

Falconer Appointed Canadian Chief of Staff

Effective May 1, 2016, Gord Falconer will be the new IAM Canadian Chief of Staff. In making the announcement, newly appointed IAM Canadian General Vice President Stan Pickthall said, “Gord has the ability to get things done and his accomplishments as head of our political action efforts is just one example. He was the right man for the job.” Gord was appointed as a Grand Lodge Representative in charge of

IAM Canada Statement on Attacks in Brussels

March 23, 2016 For Immediate Release TORONTO, ON  – The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers in Canada are deeply saddened and condemn the attacks in Brussels on 22 March, 2016. Dave Ritchie, Canadian General Vice-President of the IAM, on behalf of the Canadian membership, said, “on behalf of the entire IAM family, we mourn the loss of those who were killed or injured and send our thoughts and

IAMAW women: The work we do, the value we bring, the rewards we deserve

By Heather Kelley Grand Lodge Representative   We are labourers, assembly fitters, mechanics and machinists; we are hotel attendants and personal support workers; we are drivers and more. We have come a long way in the everyday jobs that people do to earn a living. We are stewards, negotiators, servicing representatives, Presidents and General Vice Presidents in our Unions. We volunteer our time and our service to the IAMAW to

Aircraft Maintenance and Overhaul Jobs The QFL Initiates Proceedings in the Superior Court

Montréal, March 11, 2016 – This morning, the Quebec Federation of Labour (QFL) filed in the Superior Court of Quebec a motion for a permanent injunction against Air Canada regarding the maintenance and overhaul of the carrier’s aircraft. In its motion, the QFL applies to the Superior Court to issue an order forcing Air Canada to meet its obligations pursuant to the Air Canada Public Participation Act, i.e., to have

A Bittersweet Day for Canadian Aerospace

Montréal, QC – February 17, 2016 will go down as one of the most bittersweet days for IAM members involved in Canadian aerospace. The day began with announcements that were both good and bad. Air Canada announced it will purchase 45 Bombardier C Series 300 airliners with options for 30 more. The national air carrier will take delivery of its first 135-seat narrow body C Series 300 in 2019. “This

Letter from R. Thomas Buffenbarger

January 1, 2016 Upon the occasion of my retirement January 1, 2016, I wish to extend to each and every member my profound "Thank You" for the support, encouragement and friendship extended to me during the 18 1/2 years I have been honored and humbled to serve as International President of our great union, the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers. Together we have experienced much, including great organizing