May 15, 2008
News release
PSAC calls CBSA handling of arming initiative and other workplace issues rash, irresponsible
OTTAWA – The union representing about 10,500 CBSA workers, which includes all of Canada's Front-Line and Inland Customs & Immigration Officers, is charging the employer of being irresponsible with how it is handling workplace issues, including the implementation of the arming initiative.
The government has given CBSA a mandate for a smooth transition over a 10-year period for the implementation of the arming of Canada’s border officers, but the Public Service Alliance of Canada says the Agency is not following that mandate at the bargaining table.
“Our union has been pushing for a smooth transition that ensures that officers are protected through the arming implementation process,” says PSAC National President John Gordon. “CBSA has responded irresponsibly by implying that officers may be laid off as a result of arming. CBSA has also indicated that there is no long-term plan regarding implementation.”
CBSA is also proposing other changes at negotiations that the union finds unacceptable, including giving management the ability to change officers’ working hours at a whim and remove protections that have been in place for decades. The union has filed an unfair labour practice complaint with the Labour Board over CBSA’s bargaining in bad faith.
“As it is, CBSA is suffering from high turnover,” says Ron Moran, the president of the Customs Excise Union Douanes Accise, a component of the PSAC. “Officers are leaving for other law-enforcement organizations because of CBSA’s irresponsible behaviour and inferior working conditions.”
The PSAC has been in negotiations with the CBSA for almost a year with very little progress.
“All that officers are asking for in this round is that there be fair rules in place and that working conditions for officers be brought into line with other enforcement agencies,” Moran says. “With the way things are going in negotiations, officers are frustrated with CBSA management.”
CBSA officers have been without a contract since June 20, 2007.
For information:
Joselito Calugay, PSAC communications officer, 613-560-4235 or
613-293-9324
20-150508
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Date Modified : 2008/07/30
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