It’s almost the worst possible scenario for Canadian diplomats, protesting against their own government, but that’s exactly what they’re doing as contract negotiations have stalled since January.
The diplomats are now refusing to do overtime, answer e-mails after office hours, and this week started information pickets in Ottawa before the beginning of their work day.
“…it goes against every instinct in our body, absolutely. We’re not in the business of questioning or challenging our government. We’re in the business of promoting its interests, promoting Canada’s interests abroad..” – Tim Edwards
The federal government has not negotiated with the diplomats since January.
In March, the membership voted 82 per cent in favour of a strike. So far they are limiting themselves to sporadic protests, picketing in Ottawa, and work-to-rule tactics that slow down Canadian foreign service activities.
RCI’s Wojtek Gwiazda spoke to Tim Edwards, the president of the Professional Association of Foreign Service Officers to find out more.
More information:
Professional Association of Foreign Service Officers web site – www.pafso-apase.com
Latest developments – here
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