This statement is attributable to Deborah Yedlin, President & CEO at the Calgary Chamber of Commerce
“In a country as vast as Canada, air transportation is not a luxury, it is a critical service that supports Canadians and the Canadian economy. More than 130,000 Canadians use Air Canada’s services daily for personal and businesses reasons – whether flying for business, family or using the aircraft for cargo, Air Canada serves an economic conduit that connects our nation. As a trading nation, Canada needs predictable and reliable access to air transportation, nationally and internationally. A labour disruption for Air Canada means delays, increased costs and a decline in Canada’s reliability as a trading partner. It also has the potential to increase the cost of flights at a time when affordability is an issue for all Canadians. A strike will impact businesses across sectors and sizes and cause economic dislocation at a time when our international trade situation is tenuous.
“Canadian businesses are actively trying to diversify their trade opportunities in light of the tariff situation with the United States, in addition to dissolving interprovincial trade barriers. A labour disruption on Air Canada’s services would not only impact passenger travel but also disrupt air cargo connectivity – leading to losses for Canadian exporters, with the impact compounded on industries throughout the economy. At a time when there are concerns regarding the integrity of our supply chains, with 59 per cent of businesses in the Calgary area expecting supply chain issues to worsen, we need governments to address labour disruptions like these in a timely manner before they wreak havoc on our trade opportunities and our broader economy.
“Given what’s at stake, we need all parties to get back to the bargaining table, engage in good faith and reach a negotiated agreement for the benefit of all stakeholders. If they cannot reach a negotiated agreement, the federal government must be ready to intervene to avoid a prolonged disruption. We urge the federal government and all parties to continue to put the best interests of our country’s businesses, workers and communities at the forefront, minimizing the economic impact.”
– 30 –
About the Calgary Chamber of Commerce
The Calgary Chamber exists to empower our business community to advance a prosperous Calgary and Canada. As the convenor and catalyst for a vibrant, inclusive and prosperous business community, the Chamber works to build strength and resilience among its members and position Calgary as a magnet for talent, diversification and opportunity. As an independent, non-profit, non-partisan organization founded in 1891, we build on our history to serve and advocate for businesses of all sizes, in all sectors across the city.
Media opportunities
For media inquiries, please contact media@calgary-chamber.papercrane.ca.
