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CALGARY, AB, July 5, 2024 /CNW/ – On the opening day of the Calgary Stampede, Unifor is organizing a rally at Calgary International Airport to call attention to Paladin’s refusal to provide its workers with essential water and bathroom breaks.
“Access to water and restrooms are basic necessities in any workplace,” stated Unifor National President Lana Payne. “This isn’t just about basic decency; it’s a matter of human rights. Unifor members work tirelessly to ensure the safety of passengers at Calgary airport and deserve respect.”
The Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) is responsible for airport security across Canada and outsources this work. Previously, GardaWorld handled the security at the airport, but Vancouver-based Paladin took over the contract on April 1, 2024.
The 937 members of Unifor Local 2002, including Paladin airport screening officers, training specialists, and team leaders, are demanding better working conditions. Despite a contract valued at over $1 billion, Paladin has failed to address significant issues, including the denial of scheduled breaks and the sending home of workers due to alleged overstaffing, only to later cancel breaks due to understaffing.
Workers have reported being denied bathroom and water breaks, with some facing disciplinary threats for attempting to take these breaks when relief staff are unavailable. Unlike at other airports, where screening officers can carry water bottles or have them nearby, this practice is inexplicably prohibited at Calgary International Airport.
The United Nations recognizes access to water and sanitation as fundamental human rights essential for health, dignity, and well-being. Unifor Local 2002 President Tammy Moore emphasized the need for urgent action, stating, “Paladin must immediately address these unacceptable working conditions. We demand that all members be treated with dignity and respect and be allowed to work in humane conditions. We thank the public for their patience during any travel delays as we work towards resolving these issues.”
Unifor has made multiple attempts to resolve these matters with Paladin management, but the company has not responded adequately. The union has filed grievances and health and safety complaints, citing instances where members fainted or suffered medical issues due to lack of breaks. Last year, members endured heat stress from inadequate ventilation and air conditioning, and this spring, under Paladin’s management, fans were removed from the checkpoints.
Unifor is Canada’s largest private-sector union, representing 320,000 workers across various industries. The union advocates for workers’ rights, equality, and social justice, striving for progressive change for a better future.
