Trial by Three

Every historical event has an official record that is interesting to read. In some cases, however, a behind the scenes eyewitness can provide a much more fascinating account. Such was the case with the 1990 UNDE Convention in Montreal. The Union was still in a very powerful position at that time: flush with money from over 25,000 members. According to a good source though, there were three very “sticky” situations underlying that gathering – some more serious than others.

First off, UNDE National Staff were negotiating a new contract at that time and on the verge of going on strike. Had they done so during the actual convention, they probably would have been in Montreal picketing. Not a good image for a Union to project. Fortunately for all concerned, they did not do so.

Secondly, the elections ran late on Friday, and a lot of delegates, particularly from Western Canada, had already departed for their homes. Candidates lost out because their supporters/voters had left the building. It was certainly not a good situation to be in. Subsequently, it was decided that, for future conventions, UNDE would only book return transportation on the Saturday morning after business had been completed.

The third trial had the greatest ramifications of all. Portage la Prairie Air Force Base was closing, and nobody seemed to mind. UNDE members transferred to Winnipeg or Shilo, and civilian contractors took over the flight-training base. The Air Force had more real estate than funds so had no problems with the proposal. Unfortunately a bad precedent was set for the troubled times that were just over the horizon. Opposition now would have laid a firmer foundation to fight the massive outsourcing and downsizing in the mid-90s.