AFAP Update - APRIL 2024 - Training Issues
CAE TRAINING MATTER UPDATE
The AFAP continues to seek a resolution to pilot group concerns of CAE Flight Instructor training matters.
CAE has provided a response to the AFAP (provided below). However without a resolution, the ongoing issues with training opportunities continuing will likely create 'new' retention issues, CAE has raised retention was the issue it is trying to manage with training bonds (that AFAP noted were inconsistent to the Award).
The AFAP has agreed to meet with CAE leadership 10.00 AM Wed 24 April 2024 to work through some resolutions to these matters at CAE in Moorabbin. Following this the AFAP will meet with pilots (as per detail below). All pilots are welcome to drop in and chat about updates on current matters.
AFAP Pilot Discussions
Wed 24 April 2024
2.00 PM – 4. 00 PM (available up to 5.30PM if required)
CAE Moorabbin
Meeting Room – TBC
CAE Response to AFAP (5 April 2024):
We refer to your most recent email. Specially we are addressing the resolution actions you have requested.
CAE confirm it will reinstate upgrades and training in accordance with the workplace instrument, the CAE Training and Checking Manual.
Company response:
Offering upgrade training to eligible staff has and will always be at the Company’s discretion. Nothing has changed in this respect and is consistent with the Company’s Training and Checking Manual
CAE will reconvene any agreed training cancelled in relation to the dispute, or alternately to pay compensation to relative pilots to complete agreed training (equal to the amount to complete training elsewhere). NB The AFAP position is that the bond repayment that is not enforceable, however the contractual agreement of the training remains in place.
Company response:
The training was never cancelled, it was put on hold until the matter is resolved to ensure compliance.
iii. CAE will appropriately engage in the dispute by providing the AFAP written reasons regarding their position in the dispute, additionally outlining the training activities it views as covered by the Award, and the corresponding reasoning.
Company response:
CAE have been engaged in the resolution of the matter through the Disputes Resolution Clause 32. This includes emails, Zoom meeting. CAE are planning a face to face meeting with AFAP Industrial Officer Jason Newell in the near future.
CAE agrees to cease the alleged coercion, undue influence and/or misrepresentation of matters relating to the dispute, and workplace instruments (including the CAE Training and Checking manual).
Company response:
We strongly refute this claim as there has never been any coercion, undue influence or misrepresentation of matters relating to the dispute. The Company has been completely transparent to all staff during this dispute and even held additional consultation meetings to give all employees an opportunity to raise any concerns or questions regarding this matter. AFAP representative are welcome to visit their AFAP members at CAE.
End CAE Response.
The AFAP in good faith seek to resolve this matter and will be seeking further input from AFAP members regarding this matter as it progresses. Leading up to meetings on the Wednesday 24 April 2024, the AFAP will be in touch to undertake a general survey for feedback and guidance from members and the pilot group.
If you require assistance or have any queries, please do not hesitate to reach out for assistance to AFAP via email to Industrial Officer, Jason Newell at
Jason@afap.org.au.
Yours Sincerely,
The AFAP Industrial Team