Jobs Minister Patty Hajdu says the federal government is launching a probe into allegations of unpaid work in the airline sector as a work stoppage at Air Canada stretches on.

“Air Canada is committed to the bargaining process and remains fully available to continue negotiations toward a fair and equitable collective agreement with CUPE that recognizes the contributions of its flight attendants and supports the competitiveness and long-term growth of the company,” Air Canada said on its website July 25.

Air Canada (TSX: AC) today announced the preliminary results of the now expired substantial issuer bid (the “Offer”) to purchase for cancellation up to $500 million of its Class A Variable Voting Shares and Class B Voting Shares (collectively, the “Shares”) at a purchase price of not less than $18.50 and not more than $21.00 per Share. (CNW Group/Air Canada)