CAW calls on government to renew commitment to space technology

TORONTO - As the Canadian-built Dextre module is being attached to the Canadarm2 at the International Space Station, the CAW is demanding that the federal government renew its commitment to space technology and development.

CAW concerns follow the announcement of the proposed sale of the robotics and space division of MacDonald Dettwiler and Associates (MDA) which engineered and manufactured the Canadarm, Radarsat satellites and Dextre. CAW Locals 112, 673 and 188 represent MDA workers in the robotics and space division of MDA.

Shareholders overwhelmingly approved the $1.325 billion sale to U.S arms producer Alliant Techsystems yesterday.

The Harper Conservatives have not provided adequate support necessary for the promotion and development of this high tech industry through the Canadian Space Agency. The CAW is calling on Industry Minister Jim Prentice to make a long term commitment to the development and production of space and robotics technology.

"It's imperative that the government move immediately to ensure Canada's future role, both nationally and internationally, in the design and development of space technology," said Dawn Cartwright, CAW national aerospace director. Long term requirements include our government establishing a comprehensive sectoral strategy to retain and further develop Canada's expertise in space.

"The government claims we are moving to high-tech jobs, yet has made no commitment to some of the most sophisticated technologies this country has ever produced," said Roland Kiehne, president of CAW Local 112.