Vancouver airport workers to rally Saturday against privatization, union calls on Ottawa for answers

The union representing federal transportation workers announced on October 27 that airport workers and labour allies will gather at Vancouver International Airport (YVR) at noon on Saturday, October 31, to oppose potential privatization of Canada's airports, that is, bringing private investors into airport operations. The rally is organized by the Union of Canadian Transportation Employees (UCTE), a component of the Public Service Alliance of Canada (PSAC).

What the union is worried about

Canada's major airports currently operate under a not-for-profit airport authority model, with revenues reinvested into infrastructure, operations and services. The union warns that a shift toward private investment could put pressure on airport fees, working conditions and public accountability, and on the long-term interests of travellers and communities. It is calling on the federal government to provide clear answers about any proposed changes, including their effects on travellers, workers, fees, safety and public accountability.

What the two union leaders said

Barry Tchir, national president of UCTE, said YVR is a vital gateway for British Columbia and the country, built on decades of public investment and the dedication of airport workers, and that handing greater control to private investors raises serious questions about higher costs, public accountability and the future of good jobs. Sharon DeSousa, national president of PSAC, said public infrastructure must serve the public, not become another opportunity for private investors to extract profits. The organizers say media are invited and union representatives will be available for interviews. Note that the rally targets a potential privatization direction; the announcement itself does not report any finalized privatization decision.