On February 17, 2009, as per our Collective Agreement, CAW Local 1016 was served notice of technological change by Nav Canada. Nav Canada is going ahead with the purchase of Voice Recognition Technology for use in their new IFR simulators.

The executive has made numerous attempts to try to convince Nav Canada that this decision is being made hastily, as there are very few examples of this technology actually being used successfully in a real operational setting.

Nonetheless, the company is determined to implement this technology. It is expected that the new simulators will be phased in to the Flight Information Regions beginning in September 2009, with full implementation by spring 2010, with the exception of bilingual Voice recognition, which will follow once it is fully developed. While this new technology will severely impact the number of Training Simulation Specialists (TSS) required in each region, discussions have already begun with the Employer, to determine the full impact on our Membership. These discussions will continue, in order to ensure that there are no involuntary layoffs for our members. No involuntary layoffs, is and will continue to be a priority for Local 1016 throughout this difficult process.

The impact of this new Technological Change is being closely examined at both the National and Local level of the CAW, as we prepare to serve notice to commence collective bargaining on March 1, 2009. We will be communicating new and more precise information as soon as it becomes available. Please check web site or contact your regional representative if you have any further questions.


CAW Local 1016 Executive