Temporary employment agencies are now supplying labour to one of the country’s largest workplaces — Pearson airport — amid criticism that an influx of temps on the tarmac endangers both worker and public safety.
At least two temp agencies were contracted in May by major Pearson operator Swissport, which provides baggage and ground handling services, documents obtained by the Star show.
Pierre Payette, Swissport Canada’s vice-president of operations for Toronto, said the company “engaged subcontractors” earlier this year because of high turnover and retention issues, as well as the summer travel rush.
It’s the first time temp agencies have been allowed to operate at Pearson, according to Sean Smith of the Toronto Airport Workers’ Council, a cross-union body which advocates for Pearson workers. Smith says temp agency workers receive significantly less training than permanent employees.
