IBEW Local 2228 Statement on Arbitration Decision

On behalf of our members, IBEW Local 2228 wishes to provide context regarding the recent arbitration decision on the interpretation of our collective agreement with NAV CANADA, covering the period from January 1, 2024, to December 31, 2028.

The dispute centered on the effective date for the elimination of Technical Competency Premiums (TCPs).

• IBEW’s position was that TCPs should have been eliminated on the date of ratification (May 8, 2024), while other negotiated wage increases were to take effect from January 1, 2024.
• NAV CANADA’s position was that all negotiated changes, including the elimination of TCPs, were effective January 1, 2024.

The arbitrator ultimately ruled in favour of NAV CANADA’s interpretation, and the grievance was dismissed.

While we respect the arbitrator’s ruling, IBEW 2228 firmly believes our interpretation reflected both the spirit and intent of the bargaining process. Our position was grounded in protecting the fairness and financial recognition owed to members who had been receiving TCPs prior to ratification.

It is important to note that following our initial grievance, NAV CANADA implemented a compromise approach in April 2024:

• Members without TCPs as of December 31, 2023, received the 3.5% wage increase effective January 1, 2024.
• Members with TCPs continued to receive their 5% premium until May 8, 2024, and then received the 3.5% increase from that date forward.

This approach avoided clawing back premiums received between January 1 and May 8, 2024.

Although the arbitration outcome is disappointing, we acknowledge NAV CANADA’s decision to maintain the compromise solution and not exercise its contractual right to recover the premiums paid.

IBEW Local 2228 remains committed to:

• Advocating vigorously for our members in all matters of contract interpretation and implementation.
• Ensuring transparency in communicating the outcomes of these processes.
• Continuing to protect the value of our members’ work and the integrity of negotiated agreements.

We thank our members for their patience and solidarity throughout this process.