Employer's text about wages, benefits and pensions at centre of dispute over union bargaining rights
A single text message helped an Alberta employer survive a union challenge to a bargaining rights vote.
In a decision dated Oct. 6, 2026, chair Nancy Schlesinger and the Alberta Labour Relations Board dismissed all objections brought by the International Brotherhood of Boilermakers, Local Lodge No. 146, finding Alberta Exchanger Ltd. did not interfere with employees’ right to vote on removing the union.
Alberta Exchanger specializes in the fabrication, repair, and service of heat exchanger equipment for the oil and gas and petrochemical industries, with a 26-person bargaining unit at its Edmonton shop. In June 2026, employees applied to revoke the union’s bargaining rights. A board officer confirmed the application had at least 40% support.
The union objected, alleging the employer promised benefits to influence the outcome. The dispute traced back to a union lunch meeting where representatives told employees their benefits and pension would be lost and wages would drop if they voted to leave.
Two employees separately approached the company’s vice-president. He told both the company had no plans to reduce wages, cut benefits, or stop pension contributions. He then texted one — a lead hand whose first language is not English — on July 2, 2026: “The statement for anyone that asks you is: ‘The company has no plans to reduce wages, cut benefits, or...
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