Bulletin
Avis – WorkShare Update – March 30, 2020
March 30, 2020
To: All MoveUP members at Avis
MoveUP has been working with the employer to try to maximize our members’ income in the face of the massive drop-off in business due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Using the benefit programs being offered by the government will make sure as much money is getting in to members’ pockets as possible.
We do not yet have details on how the government’s subsidy of 75% of wages will work and if Avis is an eligible employer. We are watching closely for that information. Because we know every day is critical, we are pursuing the existing opportunities. One of these opportunities is the WorkShare program.
The Federal Government has implemented changes to the Employment Insurance WorkShare program to encourage employers to avoid massive layoffs. Like everything to do with COVID-19, it has been created and is being implemented relatively quickly. The nuts and bolts of how the programs will be changed is being worked out after the program is announced. This creates an information lag. Unfortunately, time is not anyone’s friend as we collectively try to address this crisis.
As of today, the WorkShare program at Avis will be implemented in the following manner:
1) Members who have not accepted layoff will work reduced hours
2) Avis will make an application to WorkShare for hours not worked to be paid to members
3) The rate of pay for WorkShare hours is the same as for EI (55% of your average insurable weekly earnings)
4) Employees on WorkShare will continue to receive benefits
Our understanding is that all members at Avis who will have the opportunity to participate in the WorkShare program have been approached and advised of their options. When the business starts to increase, hours will be returned to those who are working. Once these members are back to 40 hours, members on layoff will be recalled by seniority.
Given the exceptional and temporary downturn in business, the government incentives to keep people working, and the speed with which things are changing as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, MoveUP is working very quickly to provide members with security. This is clearly our preferred method of operating. In normal circumstances, we would be consulting extensively with members about these changes. We recognize that some members will have other thoughts on how the loss of business should be handled. We respect those views and we believe that we have acted in the best interests of the membership in moving quickly to secure jobs and take advantage of government programs.
To keep updated on COVID-19 please click here.
Please stay safe.
In solidarity,
Shawn Lakusta, Union Representative
Christy Slusarenko, Vice-President of Combined Units