DFA President’s Message

David Westwood

I understand and appreciate that emotions are running high and that everyone is craving information and updates on a resolution to the lockout.

The Board and DFA both agreed to keep confidential all discussions and exchanges during conciliation, with any public releases to be jointly agreed by both parties. I recognize and understand why today’s release about the Conciliator ending the conciliation session does not provide much satisfaction or clarity on where things stand.

I called an emergency meeting of the DFA Executive Committee tonight to brief them on what has happened, because information shared with this group can be kept confidential within the terms of our agreement and because this group has decision-making authority.

Having now been briefed, the Executive Committee understands and supports the Bargaining Team as they continue the work of negotiating (1) a collective agreement that can be recommended to the membership, and (2) a return-to-work agreement that can be recommended to the membership.

We will continue to provide you with updates within the constraints of any agreements made with the Board around confidentiality. Both parties have agreed that confidentiality is an important condition for reaching a conclusion to the lockout.

Please continue your outstanding work on our physical and virtual picket lines, as your energy, passion, and enthusiasm is helping the DFA Bargaining Team to represent your interests at the table, and the solidarity that we are building will pay dividends long into the future.

Sincerely,

Dave Westwood
DFA President 2025-2026