Dear Members,
In recent weeks, you have voiced your frustration and anger about the dispute between the PNA & Unions and the CBC over the MOA, the agreement which set out the terms for the sharing of future pension surpluses. CBC’s position is that the MOA is no longer in force and as such, contends there is no agreement for the sharing of future pension surpluses.
Breach of Trust and Faith
It is an indefensible position. We believe that CBC’s actions demonstrate a significant breach of trust and good faith. We feel strongly that CBC should live up to the terms of the MOA as negotiated by both parties in good faith more than 10 years ago. The arbitration process triggered by the CBC is costly, unnecessary, and damaging. It will create yet another rift between itself, its employees, and pensioners.
The emotional and financial implications of CBC’s actions are significant. At a time when inflation is skyrocketing, members would benefit from the pension surplus distribution.
Clearly, you all agree. Never before has an issue outraged so many members, and many of you want to take action. We understand that you want to make your voices heard by the CBC. It is important that we consider the ways to do this, and weigh the efforts required versus potential outcomes.
PNA Demands to be Heard
We invited CBC’s Vice-President of People and Culture, Marco Dubé, to meet with the PNA Board in Toronto last week. Our intention was to relay what we are hearing from members and insist on action. He heard how the CBC has made PNA members feel disappointed, frustrated, and abandoned, and he acknowledged the financial implications.
While Mr. Dubé believes that PNA members are extraordinary ambassadors for the CBC, he was unable to provide an explanation for CBC’s position, pointing to the fact that the issue is currently in arbitration.
What Happens Next?
Mr. Dubé promised that he would report back to the CBC on his meeting with the board. We appreciate that he took the time to listen to our concerns and look forward to seeing what happens next.
The arbitration will continue, setting the stage for another expensive and prolonged dispute. We also await a decision on our request for a “preservation order”. In the meantime, the CBC continues to reap the law-imposed “contribution holiday”.
We will continue to make sure the CBC is aware of our position on this crucial matter. We will advocate for your rights and benefits and examine other measures we can take. We hope that the CBC demonstrates that it truly values the PNA as a significant and important stakeholder group by reversing its decision and honouring the MOA.
What Can You Do?
If you wish to express your personal dissatisfaction, we encourage you to write a personal letter/email to CBC President Catherine Tait at catherine.tait@cbc.ca, expressing your support for the PNA’s position.
We will continue to provide you with updates as the situation evolves.
Alain Pineau
President