This week I had the pleasure of representing Prairie Labour Councils as their VP on Canada Council (the governing body of the Canadian Labour Congress) as well as attend CLC lobby days at Parliament.
While there, I ran into UNA VP Danielle Larivee & CLC VP Siobhan Vipond as we rallied to send our contries Premiers & the Federal government the message that #profitdoesntcare! It is incredibly important that as our representatives hammer out a deal on healthcare that we make it clear that no public money should be spent on private profits. Every cent needs to be going towards patient care not lining the pockets of the wealthy and connected elite!
As a member of a federally regulated union the chance to speak to my MP and Minister Blair about Anti-Scab legislation, Sustainable Jobs Policy (Just Transition), and the need to invest in the care economy on all levels was fantastic. On a personal note, having had my collective bargaining rights weakened by my employer contracting out “struck work” I was excited to share my real-life experience about the need for Anti-Scab laws with legislators. I had the pleasure of advocating alongside 3 Federation of Labour Presidents and the President of OPSEU (Canada’s largest public sector union) and saw what can be accomplished with great knowledge and synergy. With these titans at my side I am sure our message got through loud and clear. Over the two days I heard countless promises from NDP MP’s saying they are looking to make use of their supply and confidence agreement and I am hopeful that federal anti-scab legislation will come soon though may be too late for USW 1944 members who are in for a battle with Telus.