“We’ve heard from a number of you that there isn’t a clear process in place where you can resolve issues and get answers.” Those were the words from Porter’s director of in-flight services to cabin crew yesterday – and sadly, we have to agree.
This acknowledgement from management also reflects how many cabin crew feel every time Porter makes changes to our work rules that make our jobs worse. And to be honest, that seems to be happening a lot these days!
Now, having a voice through FOAG is better than having no voice at all. But every day, more and more cabin crew are seeing that our voice could be so much stronger. We’re seeing that our jobs could be so much better if we take the next step, and upgrade from FOAG to a real union with a real voice and real power to make positive changes and defend our rights.
FOAG is an important channel for conveying our concerns to management. But without a clear process for resolving issues – and without any real teeth – the company will always be free to ignore our concerns, deny us answers, and make big changes without our input.
With a union, the company will have to come to us first before they make these kinds of changes to our working conditions, and they’ll be accountable for their decisions to us through the union. Of course, with a union, we would never refuse changes that make our jobs better. But having a union will give us the power to demand clear answers, or say no when the company tries to make changes that make our jobs worse.
The difference is clear. If you’re ready to upgrade from FOAG to a real union, sign your union card today.