The Registered Nurses’ Union Newfoundland & Labrador (RNU) is deeply troubled by the federal government’s decision to force striking Air Canada flight attendants back to work after just 12 hours of job action. The speed at which this was invoked is alarming and reflects a troubling pattern of governments using back-to-work orders as a routine tool to avoid genuine bargaining.

“This government action is chilling for all unionized workers across the country. The right to strike is not only hard won, but also essential to ensuring fair negotiations. Employers and government alike must respect the bargaining process and allow it to unfold without interference,” said Yvette Coffey, President of the Registered Nurses’ Union Newfoundland & Labrador.

The RNU cautions that such heavy-handed actions send a dangerous message to employers: that they can avoid negotiating in good faith, relying instead on government to silence workers’ voices through back-to-work legislation.

“Our union stands shoulder to shoulder with the flight attendants of Air Canada. This kind of cavalier tactic is an affront to every worker in this country. We are united against union-busting, bullying, and any attempt to deny workers their rights,” Coffey added.

The RNU is calling on both Air Canada and the federal government to step back, respect workers’ rights, and return to the bargaining table in good faith. As RNU prepares for its own collective bargaining process with the provincial government and NL Health Services, members are deeply concerned that this tactic could be repeated here. The union is making it clear that it will resist any attempt to undermine bargaining rights with every resource available.

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About the Registered Nurses’ Union Newfoundland & Labrador

The Registered Nurses’ Union Newfoundland & Labrador (RNU) represents more than 5,800 registered nurses and nurse practitioners working in acute care, long-term care, community, education, and research. RNU is dedicated to advocating for quality public healthcare and ensuring that RNs and NPs are recognized and supported in delivering expert, evidence-based care to the people of this province.

For more information, please contact:

Jonathan Hamel

Director of Communications

Registered Nurses’ Union Newfoundland & Labrador

Phone: (709) 691-6890

Email: jhamel@rnunl.ca