News - Forward Together

Budget 2023: Progress for workers but only scratches the surface of pressing crises

Bruske: Workers will benefit from good, sustainable jobs but budget falls short on affordability and care OTTAWA – While today’s federal budget includes measures to create good, sustainable jobs and ease financial pressures for some, more action is needed to extend a helping hand to hard-pressed families. “Canada’s unions applaud the government’s investment in sustainable jobs and training, which will…

CLC President Bea Bruske available to react to budget

OTTAWA – Bea Bruske, President of the Canadian Labour Congress (CLC), will be available to comment on Budget 2023, and to discuss its impact on workers and their families. Canada’s unions are calling for a workers’ budget, that prioritizes real and strategic investments in publicly funded, publicly delivered services like health care, and measures to permanently strengthen our EI system. …

Like Biden, Trudeau should put good union jobs on the agenda

By Bea Bruske, President of the Canadian Labour Congress as published in The Hill Times Behind the smiles and handshakes when a U.S. president visits Canada are long hours of painstaking negotiations. Officials plan the trip to the minute and fight it out over every item on the agenda. An agenda that will no doubt include U.S. protectionism and ‘Buy…

A Workers’ Budget: Labour demands for Budget 2023

Bruske: Workers and their families are falling behind, and our inadequate social safety net is failing them. Workers expect the government to throw them a lifeline. OTTAWA – Canada’s unions are calling on the federal government to invest in workers in its budget to be released on March 28. “High inflation is eating away at workers’ hard-earned pay cheques, the…

CLC: Justice is long overdue for Black workers

The impacts of anti-Black racism are far reaching and have caused significant barriers to economic advancement and empowerment, as well as ongoing labour market discrimination. This has resulted in Black workers earning lower wages and facing obstacles in all aspects of work; from the initial hiring process, to advancement and promotion and retention. “Anti-Black racism and discrimination are deeply embedded…

Enough is enough: It’s time to put workers and pensioners before big banks and CEOs.

By Bea Bruske, President of the Canadian Labour Congress as published in The Hill Times No matter who we are, most of us want financial security for ourselves and our families when we retire. We give our all and spend decades dedicating our time and energy to our employers. When we retire, we depend on our hard-earned pensions to provide…

Canada’s unions: Urgent action required to rein in corporate greed

Bruske: Wealthy grocery CEOs must be held to account for Canadians’ skyrocketing grocery bills OTTAWA –– Yesterday, Loblaw CEO Galen Weston Jr., Empire CEO Michael Medline and Metro CEO Eric La Flèche testified before the Standing Committee on Agriculture and Agri-Food about sky-high food prices. Canada’s unions are now urging the federal government to crack down on corporate greed and…

To union feminists, this International Women’s Day, I salute you

My friends, You have led the charge, for decades, to improve women’s rights and gender equality at work. Years of tireless advocacy, over generations, has tipped the scales through every lobby, campaign, conversation and rally to get that much closer to achieving the feminist and equitable world those who stood before us dreamed of. Now, don’t get me wrong, because…

Union women: Stronger than ever

Union women across Canada are marking International Women’s Day by celebrating our collective victories and preparing for the coming challenges in the ongoing fight for women’s rights and gender equity. Canada’s unions are lifting up women’s voices, highlighting examples of how women have organised to win, and pledging to continue to be a driving force for progress in workplaces and in…

CLC President Bea Bruske responds to labour force data

Bruske: Canada’s unions pleased to see buoyancy in job market, but wages continue to lag behind inflation OTTAWA––Bea Bruske, President of the Canadian Labour Congress, made the following statement in response to the labour force data released by Statistics Canada today. “Today’s labour force numbers indicate that the job growth we saw plateau in 2022 has once again picked up.…

February 14th Women’s Memorial March Honouring Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit Peoples (MMIWG2S+)

On February 14, communities across Canada will hold Women’s Memorial Marches to remember and honour missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls and two-spirit people. By participating in a march in your area, you can show your support and solidarity. Find a local memorial march using the links below: (Montreal) February 14th MMIWGT2S / FFT2EADA Vigil Montreal https://www.facebook.com/events/498934052265336?ref=newsfeed (Toronto) 18th Annual…

Federal-provincial health care deal: Canada’s unions cautiously optimistic

Bruske: Health care deal is a step in the right direction — Now governments must deliver OTTAWA — Canada’s unions welcome the federal government’s pledge to increase health funding to provinces and territories. New money being added will help address some of the challenges but with no strings attached, this deal will only scratch the surface of the problems our…

Workers mobilize to Parliament Hill urging action on polycrisis

Bruske : Hundreds of workers will meet with MPs to call for urgent action on the biggest challenges facing Canadian workers and their families OTTAWA–– Hundreds of workers and labour leaders from across Canada are mobilizing to Parliament Hill today to sound the alarm about the mounting issues facing workers. “Workers are being hit over and over again. Rising costs…

Statement by Bea Bruske: We need to strengthen and expand our public health care system

Bea Bruske, President of the Canadian Labour Congress, released the following statement after meeting with Health Minister Jean-Yves Duclos to discuss the upcoming meeting with Canada’s premiers. OTTAWA – Canada’s unions are grateful to have had the opportunity to attend a productive and constructive meeting with Minister Duclos. We had the chance to reiterate that any new funding added to…

Workers are sounding the alarm—parliamentarians must take heed

By Bea Bruske, President of the Canadian Labour Congress as published in The Hill Times Ask any worker in Canada how they are faring right now, and they will most likely tell you that they are struggling. The issues facing workers and their families are stacking up. Eye-watering costs for food, housing, and other necessities are hammering workers’ wallets. Inflation…

BHM 2023: It’s time Canada takes care of Black care workers

Black History Month is an important time to recognize and celebrate the contributions, achievements and struggles of Black communities in this country. In recognition of the vital role Black workers have played in this nation’s care systems, Canada’s unions are calling for fair and decent work for care workers. From the hidden experiences of Black Nova Scotian domestic workers in…

Canada’s unions welcome improved long-term care standard —but demand an end to for-profit care

OTTAWA – Canada’s unions welcome improvements to the National Long-Term Care Services Standard but they must be even stronger. The standard released today focus on resident-centered care, a model of senior care that is accommodating and respectful of the resident’s personal wishes and that works directly with the health workers providing the care. “We are happy to see the government…

Canada’s unions are celebrating Canada’s ratification of International Labour Organization Convention 190

Bruske: Workers deserve a safe workplace. This historic convention will establish the right to a world of work free from violence and harassment OTTAWA––C-190 is the first global treaty that acknowledges the universal right to a world of work free from violence and harassment, and establishes a clear framework for ending it. Once ratified, governments are accountable for preventing and…

Canada’s unions: urgent action needed to end Islamophobia, protect Muslim communities

On the second National Day of Remembrance of the Québec City Mosque Attack and Action against Islamophobia, and the sixth anniversary of the horrific attack, Canada’s unions remember the victims and survivors, and continue to call for increased government action to address rising hate. “This day serves as an important reminder of the lethal impacts of Islamophobia and the need…

An economy rigged against workers could mean a ‘Winter of Discontent.’

By Bea Bruske, President of the Canadian Labour Congress, as published in the The Globe and Mail. Lockdowns, Russia’s attack on Ukraine, convoy occupations and worker walkouts – last year wasn’t easy. We all hope 2023 brings less hardship. Certainly, the last thing Canadians want right now is labour unrest across the country, but the strikes we’re seeing across the Atlantic…

Bank of Canada’s eighth consecutive rate hike means workers will take another hit

Bruske: With inflation moderating, Bank of Canada has no excuse to further burden Canadians OTTAWA––Canada’s unions are disappointed by the central bank’s decision to continue with its monetary tightening. The most recent consumer price index numbers in Canada and abroad showed that inflation is moderating – yet the Bank is stubbornly raising interest rates for the eighth time. “We…

Politicians must collaborate to find solutions for Canada’s struggling workers

Bruske: The choices facing decision-makers in the coming months will shape Canada for years to come and Canada’s unions will be there to demand a better Canada for all workers. OTTAWA- As the cabinet retreat adjourns and all parties prepare for the return of Parliament next Monday, Canada’s unions are urging cooperation and collaboration focused on helping struggling families. December’s…

Canada’s unions congratulate Magali Picard on historic FTQ presidential win

MONTRÉAL – Canada’s unions would like to congratulate Magali Picard on being the first woman and Indigenous person to be elected President of the Fédération des travailleurs et des travailleuses du Québec (FTQ). “On behalf of the CLC and its 3.3 million members, we congratulate Magali on her historic win. We have a long-standing relationship with the FTQ and we’re…

Beware of Premiers bearing promises of a quick health care fix

By Bea Bruske, President of the Canadian Labour Congress, and Patty Coates, President of the Ontario Federation of Labour, as published in National Newswatch. Winston Churchill famously said, ‘Never let a good crisis go to waste,’ and clearly Premiers Doug Ford in Ontario and Danielle Smith in Alberta, took note. Both are seizing this crisis in our health care system…

Statement by the Canadian Labour Congress regarding the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC)

The Canadian Labour Congress has expressed its grave concerns about the allegations against Luca Visentini, stemming from an ongoing corruption investigation by the Belgian authorities. Visentini was elected to the position of General Secretary of the International Trade Union Confederation in Melbourne, Australia, in November 2022. He was subsequently arrested and released with conditions as part of the investigation. Visentini…

New! Permanent Residence for “Out-of-Status” Construction Workers in the GTA, 2023

Permanent Residence for “Out-of-Status” Construction Workers in the GTA, 2023 The Canadian Labour Congress (CLC) is working with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to process at least another 500 applications for permanent residence for out-of-status construction workers in the GTA in 2023. Under the new Subsequent Temporary Public Policy to Continue to Facilitate Access to Permanent Resident Status for…

As we head into the holidays, Canadians are struggling after being hammered by aggressive interest rate hikes

Bruske: In 2023, Parliament needs to focus on the true causes of inflation and address the affordability crisis Canadians will continue to face Today’s numbers are further evidence that inflation is already slowly moderating in Canada. Yet again, Canada’s unions are calling on the Bank to pause its tightening cycle and avoid further hiking rates. “The Bank’s rapid and aggressive…

Statement from Bea Bruske on the mass shooting in Vaughan, Ontario

Canada’s unions are shocked and horrified to hear of the tragic mass shooting in Vaughan on Sunday evening. Canada’s unions wish to express their deepest sorrow and shock at the news of this horrible event, where five lives were brutally lost. We want to extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of those who were killed in this senseless act of…

International Migrants Day: Canada must do more to help undocumented people secure their rights

Canada’s unions are urging the federal government to be ambitious in developing an inclusive and comprehensive regularization program for undocumented people that includes protections to ensure their safety. An estimated 500,000 undocumented people in Canada live under constant fear and threat of abuse and exploitation due to their immigration status. They frequently face racism, discrimination and wage theft, work in…

Canada’s unions are lifting everyone up

Bruske: As Parliament adjourns, we celebrate progress made and gear up to fight even harder for workers in 2023 OTTAWA — The current parliamentary session has drawn to a close, and Canada’s unions are taking the opportunity to celebrate the progress made this year for workers. In 2022, many workers and their families buckled under sky-high inflation, eye-popping grocery bills…

The Bank’s forgotten mandate: Support maximum sustainable employment

BRUSKE: More balanced economic policies needed to avoid devastating job losses OTTAWA –– A year after the Bank of Canada received a new mandate, Canada’s unions are asking what happened to the new directions that added employment considerations when the Bank is setting Canada’s monetary policy. “A year ago, amidst great fanfare, the Bank received direction that Canada’s monetary policy…

Canada’s unions: hate and racism cannot continue to go unchecked

Canada’s unions have long brought workers together in solidarity and unity to carry on the fight against racism in our workplaces and communities. As we mark Human Rights Day—observed annually on December 10—Canada’s unions are calling out rising hate and racism, and underscoring the path set 25 years ago when they released the National Anti-Racism Task Force report titled Challenging…

Premiers and PM must get health deal done

BRUSKE: Political bickering must be replaced with all-hands-on-deck urgency to save kids’ lives OTTAWA––Canada faces a rising number of children getting seriously ill and even dying from the ‘tripledemic’ of COVID, flu and RSV. Canada’s unions are calling on politicians at all levels to stop the blame and bickering and come together behind providing health care workers with the resources…

New child care legislation includes important commitment to non-profit child care and a qualified and well-supported workforce

Bruske: We welcome new child care legislation and will fight to strengthen it as it moves through committee OTTAWA –– Canada’s unions welcome today’s early learning and child care legislation, Bill C‑35, another success born of the cooperation between the NDP and the Liberal government. “Ensuring affordable, high quality, accessible and flexible services means we will have a Canada-wide system…

Missed opportunity to push pause on rate hikes and put people first

BRUSKE: We should do everything we can to avoid job losses and a painful recession OTTAWA––Canada’s unions reacted with disappointment to the Bank of Canada’s decision today to rush ahead with the seventh interest rate hike this year. “Economists have urged the Bank of Canada to let the impact of previous rate hikes take hold before taking further action that…

Bea Bruske: Bank of Canada should pause rate hikes now to avert a manufactured recession

By Bea Bruske, as published in the Financial Post. Bank risks substantially weakening our economy, potentially throwing hundreds of thousands of Canadians out of work Facing a one-two punch of sky-high prices on daily essentials combined with rising credit card, mortgage and other bills, the last thing Canadians need right now is a recession, which could mean massive job losses…

It’s time to commit to ending gender-based violence and say never again!

Every year on December 6th people across Canada remember the 14 women who were murdered in a horrific act of gender-based violence at Montreal’s École Polytechnique. This is a day to honour those lost to gender-based violence and to commit to eliminating it by taking concrete actions. Canada’s unions have marked the National Day of Remembrance and Action since the…

Canada’s unions call for fast-tracking of Canada Disability Benefit

Canada’s unions are marking the International Day for Persons with Disabilities by renewing the call for a fast-tracked Canada Disability Benefit. People with disabilities continue to face significantly higher costs of living than people without disabilities and struggle to cover the cost of basic necessities including specialised equipment, prescriptions not covered by health insurance plans and accessible housing retrofits. These extra…

Sylvain Le May – Winner of the 2022 Carol McGregor CLC Disability Rights Award

December 3 is the International Day of Persons with Disabilities—which aims to promote awareness and mobilize support for disability rights issues. On this day, the CLC recognizes a union member for their disability rights activism. This year, on the eleventh anniversary of the award, the Canadian Labour Congress is pleased to announce CUPE Local 1294 activist Sylvain Le May as…

It’s time to end gender-based violence at work

A call centre worker receives a torrent of verbal abuse while helping a customer. A nurse returns from work with bruises and torn scrubs after being attacked by an agitated patient. A barista is stalked by a regular customer. These stories are a daily reality for many workers across Canada–and unfortunately, current worker protections fall short. For the past three…

Canada’s unions applaud the introduction of federal paid sick leave

Bruske: Thousands of workers in federally-regulated workplaces will benefit; now we need paid sick leave for all workers. OTTAWA — Canada’s unions are pleased to see new legislation making ten days of paid sick leave available for all workers in federally-regulated private-sector workplaces come into effect today. Access to paid sick leave is a critical tool to keep our communities…

On November 25th – Canada’s unions are raising awareness on Gender-Based Violence at Work

Every day in Canada women, two-spirit, trans, non-binary and gender nonconforming workers face life-threatening violence and harassment at work. Today, November 25th is the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women and the first day of 16 globally recognized days of activism to end gender-based violence. This year the Canadian Labour Congress is continuing its work to address…

Unions welcome new protections for workers’ pensions

Bruske: Senate must now act quickly to pass Bill C-228 and safeguard the hard-earned pensions of millions of workers and pensioners. OTTAWA — Canada’s unions are happy to see Bill C-228 passed in the House of Commons today. This bill aimed to ensure that in the event of an employer becoming insolvent, the employer will have to prioritize paying pensions…

Canada’s unions on COP27: Some wins, but we have our work cut out for us

The COP27 negotiations in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt, delivered some important wins but highlighted that, more than ever, the world needs a Just Transition. Canada’s unions are pleased that the Sharm El-Sheikh Implementation Plan emphasizes the need for a Just Transition to centre social dialogue and include social protection. This is a significant step forward that recognizes the importance of engaging…

Bank of Canada’s continuous rate hike is not slowing down inflation

Bruske: It’s time to address the true causes of current inflation, protect Canadians against its effects, and safeguard jobs and incomes. OTTAWA –– Canada’s inflation rate held at 6.9 per cent in October, despite the Bank of Canada’s aggressive interest rate increases, while workers across Canada continue to see their cost of living rise. “To have the Bank of Canada…

Trans workers disproportionately impacted by harassment, violence at work

Canada’s unions are calling attention to the alarming results from the recent national survey on harassment and violence in Canadian workplaces, which revealed that non-binary and trans workers were disproportionately impacted by these experiences in the workplace. Canada’s unions are marking Trans Week of Awareness with a renewed commitment to supporting trans people in the workplace by calling for a…

Statement from Larry Rousseau: Meaningful investments and a seat at the table for workers essential for decarbonization

Larry Rousseau, Executive Vice-President of the Canadian Labour Congress, released this statement ahead of COP27: “Canada’s unions are gearing up to be a strong voice for working people and their families at the global climate summit, COP27, from November 6th – November 19th, 2022. “Governments are making efforts to decarbonize their economies as the climate crisis wreaks havoc on communities…

Statement by Bea Bruske: Ford’s use of notwithstanding clause is a full-on violation of workers’ rights

Bea Bruske, President of the Canadian Labour Congress, released the following statement in solidarity with Ontario’s education professionals’ right to strike. TORONTO – Canada’s unions stand in solidarity with the 55,000 CUPE Ontario School Boards Council of Unions (OSBCU) education workers – early childhood educators, custodians, maintenance and library workers, secretaries, educational assistants, IT professionals – asking for a fair…

Fall economic statement: Canada’s unions welcome new investments

Bruske: We are happy to finally see this government move toward a more sustainable future. OTTAWA –– Canada’s unions applaud the announced investment in workers, sustainable jobs and training that will help equip workers with the skills they need to meet the challenges of Canada’s economic future. “Canada’s unions have long advocated for federal guidance and investment in the training…

Canadian Labour Congress President Bea Bruske available to speak on fall economic update

OTTAWA––Bea Bruske, President of the Canadian Labour Congress, is available to talk about what the Canada’s unions expect to hear from Minister Freeland in Thursday’s fall economic update. Recently, the CLC and Centre for Future Work released a report, ‘A Cure Worse than the Disease? Toward a More Balanced Understanding of Inflation and What to Do About It,’ which highlights…

Statement by Bea Bruske: Canada’s unions stand in solidarity with CUPE Ontario education workers in the face of Ford’s legislative attacks

Bea Bruske, President of the Canadian Labour Congress, released the following statement in support of Ontario’s education professionals’ rights to fair bargaining. “The Ford government’s decision to introduce legislation to force the lowest-paid education workers back to work and refusal to negotiate is more proof that he is not on the side of workers. The Ford government has a long…

Bank of Canada determined to push the economy into a recession, no matter the impact on Canadians

Bruske: Workers cannot keep paying the price the Bank of Canada is imposing. A recession would mean thousands of Canadians thrown out of work and downward pressure on wages. OTTAWA –– Today’s decision by the Bank of Canada to further raise interest rates will have devastating effects on the working people who drive our economy. “With corporate profits at an all-time…

New report urges rate hike pause to save workers’ jobs

An economic report from the Canadian Labour Congress and the Centre for Future Work proposes alternatives to a monetary policy-induced recession OTTAWA – A new economic report outlining the risks of the Bank of Canada’s single-minded pursuit of Canada’s inflation target through higher interest rates was released today by the Canadian Labour Congress (CLC) and the Centre for Future Work.…

Workers push back, demand decent work from decision-makers

As the global community marks World Day for Decent Work, workers around the world are standing up to employers and governments and demanding better: better working conditions, better wages and better access to benefits. The economic impacts of the pandemic highlighted not only existing inequality, but showed how a lack of workplace benefits – like paid sick leave – can…

Sisters in Spirit Vigil Events

October 4 is Sisters in Spirit Day, an annual day to honour and remember the lives of missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls and two-spirit people, and to support grieving families and community members. Find a virtual or in-person vigil in your area to show your support and solidarity: St. John’s Friendship Centre, NL https://firstlightnl.ca/event/sisters-in-spirit-vigil/ Sisters in Spirit Vigil and…

Political leaders must work together and fast-track Bill C-22 on Disability Benefits

Canada’s unions are urging MPs from all parties to come together in support of Bill C-22, the Canada Disability Benefits Bill. The bill would raise the floor on federal disability income support with a guaranteed monthly benefit and help lift people in Canada with disabilities—including mental illness—out of poverty. This week marks Mental Illness Awareness Week, which is aimed at…

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation: A day for meaningful action and solidarity

Canada’s unions are calling on the federal government to mark the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation by taking concrete action toward reconciliation with Indigenous peoples. We are also encouraging Canadians – particularly those who have most benefitted from colonialism – to take the time to learn about Canada’s colonial past and to take meaningful action towards supporting Indigenous communities…

Grocery greedflation leaves families paying more for food

Bruske: Corporate concentration drives up food prices as a few companies occupy an outsized market share OTTAWA––As Canadian families struggle to afford their grocery bill and as profits for grocery chains grow, Canada’s unions are calling on governments to take action on greedflation and the role it has played fuelling the ongoing inflation crisis. “Rising prices on family essentials is…

Statement by Bea Bruske: We must work to avoid a recession that would put many working families at risk

Bea Bruske, President of the Canadian Labour Congress, released the following statement after meeting between the Bank of Canada Governor and a delegation of representatives of the labour movement: “Canada’s unions were pleased to have the opportunity to meet with the Governor and Deputy Governors from the Bank of Canada and brief them on the realities facing workers and their…

To achieve gender equality, Canada’s decision makers must prioritize investments in care

Canada’s unions are marking Gender Equality Week by calling on the federal government to reduce and redistribute women’s unpaid care work and help fix Canada’s broken care systems. “Investments in care are essential if we’re going to reduce and redistribute women’s unpaid work and pave the way for women to take on paid work, or to access education or training,”…

Equal pay for work of equal value: it’s long past the time for employers and governments to get it right on pay equity

Canada’s unions are calling on governments around the world, at all levels, to take urgent action on pay equity. This includes addressing pay disparities in jobs dominated by women, like the care sector, and lessening the burden of unpaid care that is disproportionately shouldered by women around the world. “The global care economy is in crisis. Here in Canada, underfunding,…

Labour 20 recommendations to G20 Labour and Employment Ministers

In advance of a meeting of the G20 Labour and Employment Ministers held in Bali, Indonesia on September 14, 2022, the Labour 20, or L20, laid out a series of recommendations to Ministers. The L20 represents trade unions from G20 countries and global unions. The group called on Ministers to lay the foundation of a new social contract and take…

Canada’s unions welcome inflation relief

Bruske: Liberal and New Democrat cooperation will help families weather this affordability crisis OTTAWA –– Canada’s unions welcomed new relief announced today to help families struggling with rising prices and congratulated the government for bringing forward measures to make life more affordable for everyday Canadians. “Moving forward on rental and dental relief is essential and will help to ease the…

Poilievre and the Conservatives can’t be trusted to stand up for workers

Bruske: Poilievre loud on rhetoric, but silent on his real agenda OTTAWA––With his lengthy anti-worker track record and history of cutting health care, Pierre Poilievre’s election as leader of the Conservative Party of Canada is a concern for working families, warned Bea Bruske, President of the Canadian Labour Congress. “Pierre Poilievre has used populist rhetoric to hide away his real…

Rising interest rates mean families suffer another hit in the pocketbook

Bruske: With Parliament set to return, decision makers must put Main Street, not Bay Street, first OTTAWA –– Today’s latest rate hike on top of the ongoing inflation crisis means more struggling families are facing an ever‑tightening financial squeeze. Bea Bruske, President of the Canadian Labour Congress, said with the House of Commons returning in less than two weeks, it…

A path to the middle class for millions of workers

By Bea Bruske, as published in The Province If you appreciate having weekends, a forty-hour work week, pensions, compensation for workplace injuries, maternity leave or even collective bargaining at all, thank a union organizer. The reality is, without the contributions of the labour movement, Canadian workers wouldn’t have these or so many other protections. But these gains were not accomplished…

Unions pave path to the middle class for millions of Canadians

Bruske: Growing momentum for workers to demand better OTTAWA–Canada’s unions are marking Labour Day by celebrating the hard-fought gains of the labour movement and bringing workers, their families and allies together in solidarity, united in their commitment to the important work ahead. “The collective power of workers and our long fight for fairness has delivered the forty-hour work week, pensions,…

Labour Day: Worker power is key to a stronger middle class

(TORONTO) Canada’s unions are encouraging workers to reclaim their power and stand up to employers and governments, as the country struggles to recover from the economic turmoil caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. “The pandemic and its devastating effects aren’t behind us yet, but workers in Canada have an opportunity to help shape the future we want,” said Bea Bruske, President…

Despite slowing inflation, prices still rising faster than wages

Bruske: Government should tax corporate profiteers to pay for extending expiring EI measures OTTAWA––Improving inflation numbers are a hopeful sign, but there’s still an affordability crisis facing workers and their families, cautioned Bea Bruske, President of the Canadian Labour Congress. Today’s slightly improved CPI numbers showed prices still rising at 7.6% in July, well ahead of average wage growth. Groceries…

Progress towards a world of work free of violence and harassment

Bruske: Now we must turn to the hard work of implementing this landmark international agreement to better protect workers OTTAWA––Canada’s unions welcome today’s announcement by the federal government that they will finally live up to their commitment to ratify the International Labour Organization Convention no. 190 (C-190) on Violence and Harassment. “We are happy to see Labour Minister Seamus O’Regan’s…

Labour Day Events 2022

As the clock runs down to Labour Day, Canada’s unions are planning celebrations and marches across the country. Show your support at an event near you. This is an evolving list. Please check event websites for full details. Have an event to add? Let us know at president-assistant@clcctc.ca. Note: event information is not always available in both official languages. Atlantic NEWFOUNDLAND…

Bruske to PM: Work with premiers to fix Canada’s crumbling care system

As families face shuttered emergency rooms, governments must act now so people can get the care they need OTTAWA––As families in communities across the country face closures of emergency departments, hospitals, intensive care units and birthing centres, Canada’s unions are demanding quick action from Canada’s leaders to address this health care crisis. Bea Bruske, President of the Canadian Labour Congress,…

Bank of Canada governor should stay in his lane and not undermine collective bargaining

It isn’t the 1970s; evidence does not point to a wage-price spiral. So why is Tiff Macklem now warning about wages rather than corporate profiteering? By Bea Bruske, as published in the Toronto Star The spotlight has shone brightly on Canada’s Bank Governor this year. Tiff Macklem’s starring role has put him centre stage in Canada’s ongoing inflation drama. As…

Governments must help families facing economic precipice

Bruske: Mounting evidence of low-income families at grave risk from inflation crisis must be wake-up call to all levels of government OTTAWA––Canada’s unions are calling on Canada’s governments to take immediate action to increase supports for low-income people as evidence mounts of a growing number of families unable to afford skyrocketing housing, energy and food costs. “So many are struggling…

Canada’s unions welcome today’s B.C. court’s decision in Cambie case

Bruske: Now is the time to strengthen our public health care system OTTAWA –Canada’s unions are celebrating today’s decision from the BC Court of Appeal in the Cambie Surgeries Corporation (CSC) case. Protecting and strengthening our public health care system is critical, especially with the current crisis in health care across our country. Today’s decision by the court upholds the…

Canada’s unions welcome Premiers’ call for more federal health investment – but demand greater accountability

VICTORIA––Canada’s unions welcomed the Council of the Federation’s call for increased federal health transfers but Bea Bruske, President of the Canadian Labour Congress, warned Canada’s premiers that new funding must take action to fix the health worker crisis and improve patient access and care. “Canada’s health care workers are looking at yet another summer without a break as terrible staffing…

Canada’s unions to engage Premiers at the Council of the Federation on strengthening public health care

OTTAWA––Bea Bruske, President of the Canadian Labour Congress, will be available to talk about next week’s Council of the Federation meetings, which will be focused on health care. “Extreme staffing shortages and years of chronic underfunding are placing an unbearable strain on health workers and putting our public health care system at risk,” said Bruske. “Canada’s unions will be in…

Bea Bruske: John Horgan is a true friend to working people

OTTAWA––Bea Bruske, President of the Canadian Labour Congress, released the following statement: “Canada’s unions thank John Horgan for being a true friend of working people, in B.C. and across Canada. His leadership will be greatly missed. “John never forgot his own working-class roots and led a labour-friendly government that delivered for working people. Whether it was saving lives through enacting…

Bea Bruske: Canada’s unions express solidarity and demand action on reproductive rights

OTTAWA–– Bea Bruske, President of the Canadian Labour Congress, released the following statement: “Today, the Supreme Court of the United States delivered a devastating decision to overturn the landmark precedent set 50 years ago in Roe v. Wade. The decision to rule against the constitutional right to access safe and legal abortion care jeopardizes the reproductive rights of millions of…

Indigenous Peoples Day 2022: Honouring Indigenous cultures on June 21 and beyond

Canada’s unions are marking Indigenous Peoples Day by standing in support and solidarity with First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples across the country, and calling for greater government accountability, justice and action on reconciliation. Across Canada, celebrations and ceremonies highlighting community practices, performances, art and customs of Indigenous peoples will help mark Indigenous Peoples Day on June 21. National Indigenous…

Canada’s unions: Urgent action needed to help families through the inflation crisis

OTTAWA – Day-to-day prices on essentials are surging, interest rates soaring and rents are reaching record levels. Meanwhile, wages are still lagging far behind inflation. Canada’s unions are urging Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Chrystia Freeland to announce new measures today to make sure millions of vulnerable workers and their families aren’t left behind by the worsening inflation…

June 16 is International Domestic Workers’ Day

Canada’s unions are marking International Domestic Workers’ Day by calling on the federal government to recognize the critical role of domestic workers in Canada and protect their rights. Canada’s unions have long called for the federal government to ratify and implement ILO Convention 189 Concerning Decent Work for Domestic Workers (C-189) and ILO Convention 190 on Violence and Harassment (C-190).…

Canada’s unions welcome cross-party collaboration on the Pension Protection Act – Bill C-228

OTTAWA – Canada’s unions welcome the cross-party collaboration of New Democrat, Bloc and Conservative MPs, who are moving forward key legislation to put workers at the front-of-the-line and protect their pensions when it comes to commercial bankruptcy or insolvency proceedings. “Pensions are a deferred pay cheque. Workers have put in their hours, their hard work, and have earned those pensions.…

Canada’s unions celebrate B.C. card check law to empower workers

Bruske: It’s about fairness. Premier Horgan’s government enacts critical law to support working people VICTORIA, B.C. – Canada’s unions celebrate an important milestone today as a new law in British Columbia, to return automatic certification to the province, received royal assent. Bea Bruske, President of the Canadian Labour Congress, was in the B.C. legislature to witness the legislation becoming law.…

Canada’s unions welcome disability benefit bill

Bruske: Now let’s get this bill passed quickly – and help end disability poverty OTTAWA – Canada’s unions welcome today’s re-introduction of a bill to implement the Canada Disability Benefit by Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability Inclusion, Carla Qualtrough. “The Canada Disability Benefit will provide critical support for people living with disabilities. Designed properly, this benefit could lift hundreds of…

Together, let’s move #ForwardWithPride!

In Canada and around the world, 2SLGBTQI people are facing a rising tide of hatred, discrimination and violence. Canada’s unions are marking the 2022 Pride season by standing in solidarity with 2SLGBTQI communities and against these growing attacks on human rights related to sexual orientation, gender identity, expression and sex characteristics. Canada’s unions are calling on the federal government to…

Canada’s unions call for fast-tracking of Canada Disability Benefit

Canada’s unions are marking National AccessAbility Week (NAAW) by calling on the federal government to address systemic inequities and help end disability poverty by immediately tabling the long-promised Canada Disability Benefit. “It is past time that the Canada Disability Benefit be re-introduced in Parliament and fast-tracked into legislation,” said Bea Bruske, President of the Canadian Labour Congress. “With COVID-19 still…

Canadians can’t afford for-profit long-term care

Bruske: It’s time to get the profit out of care OTTAWA –– A new report shows billions of dollars in public funds for long-term care have been diverted from patient care into the pockets of shareholders. Canada’s unions call on the federal government to make long-term care part of Canada’s public health care system. “This report is brutal evidence of…

IDAHOTB: Canada’s unions call for an end to violence and harassment

Canada’s unions are marking the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia (IDAHOTB) by calling for meaningful action to end violence and harassment against 2SLGBTQI people in Canada. “Across the globe, we are seeing unprecedented attacks on the rights of 2SLGBTQI people,” said Bea Bruske, President of the Canadian Labour Congress (CLC). “In 2022 alone, we’ve witnessed the introduction of…

Conservatives refuse to talk lagging wages instead push low-wage austerity agenda

Bruske: As wages lag far behind inflation, Conservative leadership candidates ignore struggling workers. OTTAWA – Canada’s unions are shining a spotlight on how the Conservative Party is missing in action when it comes to standing up for workers who are seeing their buying power shrink as their wages rise at half the rate of inflation. “Workers are worried about how…

Bruske to German Chancellor and the G7: Turn from ambition to action on climate and just transition

Bruske: We must not trade good jobs for low-quality, precarious work as we accelerate progress on tackling the climate crisis BERLIN – Today in Germany, Bea Bruske delivered a strong message from international labour leaders to German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, President of the G7. “When it comes to building a plan to decarbonize every sector of our economies, it is…

Honour Westray. Enforce the law.

May 9, 2022 marks the 30th anniversary of the Westray mine explosion that killed 26 miners in Pictou County, Nova Scotia. The fatal explosion was caused by a buildup of methane gas and coal dust. In the ensuing public inquiry, Justice Peter K. Richard uncovered “a complex mosaic of actions, omissions, mistakes, incompetence, apathy, cynicism, stupidity, and neglect.” Despite years…

Turn minimum wages into living wages and index to inflation

Bruske: StatCan numbers show markets aren’t delivering fair wages – governments must take action OTTAWA – With the cost of living still rising while wages lag far behind, today’s Statistics Canada Labour Force Survey shows that low unemployment numbers don’t mean workers are seeing positive changes to their paycheques. According to Bea Bruske, President of the Canadian Labour Congress, there…

Workers welcome wins in budget bill

Bruske: Canada’s unions welcome progress on key issues, but there’s more work to do on implementing 10 days of paid sick leave OTTAWA –– Canada’s unions welcomed progress in today’s Budget Implementation Act on a number of vital issues the labour movement has long pushed for but were disappointed with new delays and restrictions implementing the new paid sick leave…

Celebrate May Day the best way possible: organize!

Canada’s unions are marking May Day by standing in solidarity with workers around the world, and reminding all workers of the importance of building solidarity through worker engagement and organizing. When we organize collectively, we can ensure life is fairer for everyone. Today we also celebrate workers, the people who built this country and power our communities. From the shop…

Canada’s unions celebrate end to discriminatory blood donation policy

Bruske: Long-awaited victory for 2SLGBTQI advocates OTTAWA –– After waiting three decades, Canada’s unions welcome today’s decision by the Canadian government to reverse its discriminatory blood donation policy, which had been in place since 1992. “This is a positive step in addressing ongoing systemic discrimination experienced by 2SLGBTQI people,” said Bea Bruske, President of the Canadian Labour Congress (CLC). …

Work shouldn’t hurt: workplace health and safety rights should be fundamental

Canada’s unions are calling on the federal government to take swift action on workplace health and safety to ensure that workers in Canada are protected on the job. We are also calling on the ILO to make occupational health and safety a fundamental right. In Canada, over 1,000 workplace deaths are reported every year; hundreds of thousands more are injured…

Building a low-wage economy with stomach-churning greed

Bruske: Minimum wage employees being replaced by offshore workers making $3.75 an hour will hurt workers everywhere OTTAWA –– Replacing frontline workers with exploited offshore workers, as the restaurant chain Freshii is now doing, moves us towards a low-wage economy that weakens our communities and exploits workers, according to Bea Bruske, President of the Canadian Labour Congress. “This is about replacing…

Helping families facing affordability squeeze must be MPs’ job one

Bruske: As Parliament returns, Canada’s unions urge MPs to back workers and reject the push for a low-wage austerity agenda OTTAWA –– The highest inflation in over three decades plus the largest interest rate rise in over twenty years adds up to families falling further behind. Figures released last week revealed that inflation now stands at 6.7 percent, and rising,…

Making Global Supply Chains Safe for Workers: Nine Years after the Rana Plaza Collapse

April 24th marks the anniversary of one of the world’s worst and avoidable industrial accidents. Rana Plaza, in Dhaka, Bangladesh, was home to garment factories supplying international garment brands. When it collapsed, more than 1,100 garment workers were killed and another 2,500 workers were seriously injured. This tragedy has drawn global attention to the exploitation and dangerous health and safety conditions…

Government must not break their promise and leave Canadians paying sky-high drug costs

Canada’s unions are troubled about the government’s decision late today, to reverse course on changes to patented drug regulations, potentially forcing Canadian families to pay billions more for needed medicines. “We are calling on the government: don’t break your promise to Canadians. We can’t count on big pharmaceutical corporations to stand up for Canadians, that’s the job of our governments,”…

Rising interest rates and record inflation creating perfect storm of unaffordability

Bruske: With the cost of everything – even debt – rising fast, we must fight low-wage policies that hurt workers and their families OTTAWA – With fast rising interest rates and inflation increasing well ahead of wages, Canada’s unions are urging governments to take action to help families facing an ever‑tightening financial squeeze. Bea Bruske, President of the Canadian Labour…

Labour 7 statement to the G7 Leaders’ Summit 2022

The 2022 Labour 7 summit “Shaping the Global Common Good” will take place in Berlin from May 11 to 13. In advance of the summit, trade union leaders from G7 countries have issued the joint Labour 7 statement to the G7 Leaders’ Summit 2022: Shaping the Global Common Good Peace and Democracy, Climate Action, Health, Fair Digitalisation. You can read the…

Budget 2022: Progress on building a new and better normal

Bruske: Federal budget shows that when parties work together, everyday people benefit OTTAWA – Canada’s unions welcomed today’s investments in making life more affordable for workers and their families, including through action on dental care, affordable housing and fairer taxation. But Bea Bruske, President of the Canadian Labour Congress said that progress is hard-fought and we must be ready for…

BC government move to card check certification a win for workers

Canada’s unions welcome today’s move by the BC government to return to automatic certification in the province. “The switch from automatic certification to mandatory voting has coincided with the decline in unionization rates. This is no accident,” said Bea Bruske, President of the Canadian Labour Congress. “We need to see more government action to empower workers. Having a union and…

Canada at an Economic Crossroads: A Better Normal or Settling for Worse?

By Bea Bruske, as published in National Newswatch With the federal budget just a day away, Bay St. CEOs and senior bankers are stumbling over themselves, rushing to declare mission accomplished and claim the economic crisis is over. They are determined to fill up Canada’s opinion pages with arguments urging the government that it’s time to go back to normal.…

Top 10 things unions and working people are looking for in Budget 2022

OTTAWA – Canada’s unions are calling on the federal government to focus on the country’s economic recovery and social safety net in its budget to be released Thursday, prioritizing ten key demands. “The reality is, not everyone is sharing in the economic recovery,” said Bea Bruske, President of the Canadian Labour Congress (CLC). “Many families are still facing enormous…

National survey reports widespread harassment and violence in workplaces

Today the CLC and its research partners are releasing the initial findings of a national survey on workplace harassment and violence. For years, workers and advocates have been drawing attention to the ongoing and widespread issue of harassment and violence at work. However, a shortage of Canadian-specific data made it difficult to know the extent and nature of the problem.…

Canada’s unions welcome new health funding – now make it permanent

OTTAWA – Bea Bruske, President of the Canadian Labour Congress, made the following statement today on the announcement of $2 billion in new health care funding: “Canada’s unions welcome today’s announcement of new funding to strengthen public health care, including to address backlogs that resulted from the COVID-19 pandemic. This new funding will be critical to helping provinces improve access…

Canada’s unions welcome landmark agreement between Liberals and New Democrats on a progressive agenda for Canada

OTTAWA – Canada’s unions celebrate today’s historic agreement between the Government and the NDP and look forward to vital progress on key issues. “Canada’s unions have long fought for parties to work together and move forward on a progressive policy agenda,” said Bea Bruske, President of the Canadian Labour Congress (CLC). “With today’s agreement, Parliament can now move forward on a…

Canada’s unions stand with Teamsters union and demand negotiations be allowed to continue

OTTAWA – Canada’s unions stand in solidarity with the Teamsters Canada Rail Conference (TCRC) and call for Canadian Pacific Railway (CP) to bargain in good faith. “Canada’s unions stand in solidarity, and in support of the TCRC workers, who play a fundamental role in this country’s supply chain. Teamsters are at the table and are bargaining for a fair deal for workers.…

IDERD: Fighting racism means looking back as well as looking forward

As we mark the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, Canada’s unions are making note of statistics released last week showing a dramatic increase in reported hate crimes. According to Statistics Canada hate crimes targeting race or ethnicity that were reported to police increased by 80 per cent between 2019 and 2020. Notably, hate crimes against East or…

Canada’s unions: victory laps premature when it comes to jobs numbers

Bruske: Wages rising at less than the cost-of-living while workers in some sectors are being left behind OTTAWA – Today’s Statistics Canada Labour Force Survey shows that the overly-rosy picture some claim about the economic recovery doesn’t hold up on closer inspection. Bea Bruske, President of the Canadian Labour Congress points out that the reality facing many Canadian workers is…

IWD 2022: Gender equality depends on a healthy care economy

Canada’s unions are marking International Women’s Day 2022 by highlighting the critical importance of care work, and calling for greater support for care workers and investments in Canada’s care systems. “We all need care at some point in our lives. It is vital, skilled and life-sustaining work that supports our families, economy, and communities,” said Bea Bruske, President of the…

Every worker deserves ten days paid sick leave

Bruske: Canada’s unions urge the federal government to work with the premiers to protect our communities by giving every worker access to paid sick leave OTTAWA – On the eve of federal, provincial and territorial labour minister meetings, chaired by Minister Seamus O’Regan, Canada’s unions are urging Canada’s leaders to protect our communities from COVID-19 and other future viruses by…

Joint statement from Canada’s unions on the Ottawa occupation

Canada’s unions have fought for generations for the right to protest. This is a cornerstone of our democratic system. But what we have witnessed on the streets of Canada’s capital over the past thirteen days is something different altogether. This is not a protest, it is an occupation by an angry mob trying to disguise itself as a peaceful protest…

Statement by Bea Bruske: Respecting rights is a two-way street

OTTAWA––Bea Bruske, President of the Canadian Labour Congress, released the following statement today: “Canada’s unions believe the right to protest is fundamental to our democracy. This is a right cherished by Canada’s labour movement and one we have fought for many times over many years. “We respect the rights of all Canadians to hold their own views and express their…

Welcome progress in first 100 days – but much work to do in next 100 weeks

Bruske: Government and parliament must roll up their sleeves and get down to work OTTAWA––As we mark the first 100 days of this government tomorrow, Canada’s unions welcome progress made on a number of important issues. But with families reeling from rising prices and the pandemic still running through our communities, too many people are being left without help when…

Health investments must be tied to stronger public health care

Bruske: Increased health transfers must improve public health – not become tax giveaways to people who don’t need it OTTAWA––With our public health systems facing a crisis point, Canada’s unions are demanding that increases to federal health transfers must be tied to delivering better health care to Canadian families. “We see dire shortages of health workers across the country. Long-term…

Concrete action needed to address anti-Black racism and discrimination

Canada’s unions are marking Black History Month by calling for long-term, concrete government action to address systemic labour market discrimination and disadvantages faced by Black workers. “Black people in Canada have had to struggle with the impacts of colonial systems that have rooted anti-Black racism into our institutions, policies, workplaces and society,” said Bea Bruske, President of the Canadian Labour…

Federal government must increase efforts to end Islamophobia in Canada

On this first ever National Day of Remembrance of the Quebec City Mosque Attack and Action Against Islamophobia, Canada’s unions are calling on the federal government to take increased action to confront Islamophobia and hate in Canada. January 29 marks the anniversary of a gruesome and deadly day in Canada’s history. On this day in 2017, worshippers at the Islamic…

Parliament must work with urgency on helping families

Bea Bruske: With care systems at a crisis point, runaway costs and a broken social safety net, MPs must get to work on solutions that help families now OTTAWA – While the pandemic rolls on with new disruptions, Canada’s unions are urging Members of Parliament to get down to work on helping struggling families when the House of Commons resumes sitting…

Ford punishing Ontario parents

Bea Bruske: Ford government must stop playing politics and sign child care deal OTTAWA – Canada’s unions are welcoming today’s child care agreement between the federal government and Nunavut. With today’s agreement, Ontario is now the lone province or territory that has failed to agree on a deal to bring affordable child care to families. “Every other jurisdiction in Canada…

Statement from Bea Bruske on the death of Alexa McDonough

Bea Bruske, President of the Canadian Labour Congress, released the following statement today: “It was with great sadness that I learned of the death of Alexa McDonough, a true Canadian political giant. On behalf of Canada’s unions, I extend our sincere condolences to her sons, Justin and Travis, and all the friends and family she leaves behind, who will feel…

Workers and their families need help now

More needed to help Canadians amid devastating Omicron wave Bea Bruske, president of the Canadian Labour Congress, is available to speak to media today about the federal government’s Lockdown Benefit and the effect restrictions and business closures are having on workers and their families. In advance of the government’s announcement on December 22, 2021, Bruske said: “Canada’s unions are profoundly…

Statement of the CLC and provincial and territorial federations of labour in response to the Ontario Workforce Recovery Advisory Committee Report

The Canadian Labour Congress and Canada’s provincial and territorial federations of labour unanimously reject the recommendations of the report of the Ontario’s Workforce Recovery Advisory Committee (OWRAC) that would enshrine second-class status for gig workers. We believe every worker deserves the same high standard of protection under the law. Employers have long used excuses to misclassify their employees as independent…

Canada’s unions welcome progress for seniors, students and First Nations children in fall economic update

Bruske: Canada’s unions happy to see support but disappointed unemployed workers and their families left behind OTTAWA – Canada’s unions welcomed today’s commitments to help low-income seniors and students hurting from their pandemic benefits being clawed back and support long-overdue compensation for children who suffered under Canada’s First Nations child welfare system. But the Canadian Labour Congress added unions were…

Federal government must take immediate action to protect migrant workers from COVID-19

The Auditor General released a scathing report yesterday on the alarming lack of protective measures for migrant agricultural workers in Canada. The findings of the report verified the concerns that Canada’s unions have raised repeatedly since the start of the pandemic in March 2020. “We owe a debt of gratitude to the more than 79,000 workers migrant workers who have…

Human Rights Day: Canada must ratify C-189 to protect vulnerable domestic workers

Canada’s unions are marking International Human Rights Day by renewing their call on the federal government to ratify ILO Convention 189 (C-189). This important convention recognizes and protects the rights of domestic workers. “This year marks ten years since the adoption of C-189, an historic convention which confirms the labour rights of domestic workers. And yet, a decade on, domestic…

Canada’s unions: Use fiscal update to reverse seniors’ clawbacks and emergency help for workers

Bruske: Parliament must act swiftly to help low-income seniors, the 1.2 million unemployed and the 630K working Canadians who want full-time work but can’t find it With low-income seniors and unemployed workers being left behind, Canada’s unions are demanding the upcoming Economic and Fiscal Update be more than an accounting exercise but instead include a course correction on key issues. “The most vital thing about a country’s…

Canada’s unions demand government take concrete steps to implement pharmacare in upcoming fiscal update

Bruske: January 1, 2022 was supposed to be a universal pharmacare milestone – instead we are poised to mark another year of missed opportunities OTTAWA – Canada’s unions, civil society groups, business and academics wrote to the prime minister today urging the government to use the upcoming Economic and Fiscal Update to take the next step forwards on implementing universal…

Canada’s unions: We all have an important role to play in ending gender-based violence

On December 6th 1989, 14 women were murdered in a horrific act of gender-based violence at Montreal’s École Polytechnique. This tragic event exposed a reality that many already knew and experienced: that gender-based violence is a constant threat to women and gender-diverse people in Canada, fueled by sexism and misogyny. “Here in Canada, we’ve made progress on recognizing gender-based harassment…

Rank and file union members engage MPs with powerful stories about the need to end seniors’ clawbacks

Bruske: Hundreds of union members participated in CLC’s Action Week, telling MPs about low-income seniors being left behind and care workers in desperate need of a break Hundreds of workers have been engaging MPs about the need for swift action to help struggling seniors and better support care workers as Parliament works to end the pandemic and start Canada along…

Sheryl Burns awarded the 2021 Carol McGregor CLC Disability Rights Award

December 3 marks the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, which aims to promote awareness and mobilize support for disability rights issues. On this day, the Canadian Labour Congress recognizes a union member with an award for their disability rights activism. The award is named in honour of Carol McGregor, an outstanding disability rights activist, member of BCGEU/NUPGE and the…

Federal government should fast-track Canada Disability Benefit implementation

Canada’s unions are marking December 3 – the International Day of Persons with Disabilities – by joining workers and advocates across the county in calling on the federal government to fast-track the design and implementation of the Canada Disability Benefit. “For years, the disability community has been sounding the alarm on the urgent need for improvements and reforms to Canada’s…

MPs must listen to workers and take action on a fair recovery that makes life more affordable

Canada’s unions are making sure Members of Parliament hear from workers, as they get down to work this week. The Canadian Labour Congress (CLC) is launching Action Week, where workers from across Canada will be directly engaging with MPs about their priorities. “Workers are raising their voices to make sure our elected representatives hear, loud and clear, about the need…

Canada’s unions welcome federal legislation on paid sick leave and protecting health care workers

Bruske: we will keep fighting until every worker in Canada has access to paid sick leave OTTAWA – Canada’s unions are welcoming today’s announcement of new legislation making 10 days of paid sick leave available for all workers in federally-regulated workplaces as a positive step forward for public health and worker protection. “Paid sick leave saves lives. We thank…

New worker lockdown benefit fails to benefit workers

Liberals miss the mark with new legislation, more needed to help Canadians Canada’s unions are disappointed in the federal government’s proposed legislation, tabled in parliament Wednesday, saying it will only entrench greater inequities and leave vulnerable and marginalized workers behind. “This bill has been conceived so narrowly, it’s not a pivot, it pulls the rug right out from under struggling…

Canada’s unions call on federal government to ratify and implement C-190

Canada’s unions are marking the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women by urging the federal government to live up to its commitments and finally ratify and implement International Labour Organization Convention no. 190 (C-190) on Violence and Harassment. November 25 marks the beginning of the internationally commemorated 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence. Gender-based violence and…

Parliament must get to work on a recovery that makes life more affordable for workers and their families

OTTAWA – Canada’s unions are calling on all parties in our new minority parliament to work together on behalf of workers and their families, starting with action to make life more affordable and help for those being left behind after the cancellation of emergency benefits last month. “The fact is, the crisis is not over for many workers, families and…

Canada’s unions urge federal government to end conversion therapy

Canada’s unions are marking November 20 – the Transgender Day of Remembrance – by renewing their call for a national ban on conversion therapy. Legislation seeking to prohibit conversion practices, Bill C-6, was halted in the Canadian Senate in June 2021, and died when the 2021 election was called. The Transgender Day of Remembrance celebrates and honours trans, non-binary and…

President Bea Bruske available to speak about Canada’s unions’ priorities for new Parliament

With Parliament set to return – amidst rising inflation, stretching family budgets and an uneven economic recovery – Canada’s unions are focused on making sure MPs are ready to get to work on policies that put workers and their families at the heart of Canada’s recovery plans. Bea Bruske, President of the Canadian Labour Congress, is available to speak to…

Conservatives pushing the same playbook on inflation instead of helping families

OTTAWA – With family budgets stretched thin, now is not the time to raise interest rates or cut vital government investments in things like affordable housing, child care and bringing down the cost of medicine, according to Bea Bruske, President of the Canadian Labour Congress. “Conservatives keep pushing the same playbook, time and time again. You can’t solve today’s crisis…

Government must combat surging cost-of-living with action to raise minimum wage and bring down costs of housing, child care, and medicines

OTTAWA – With working people seeing their wages fall behind inflation, and everyday essentially getting more and more expensive, Canadians are looking for urgent action to help. Canada’s unions are looking to parliament’s return next week for measures to make life more affordable, including investments to make housing more affordable, immediate implementation of pharmacare to lower the price of medicines, and agreements…

Canada’s unions welcome Canada-Alberta affordable child care agreement

High costs and lack of affordable spaces plaguing inflation-weary parents from coast-to-coast-to-coast OTTAWA – Canada’s unions welcome today’s long-delayed child care agreement between Canada and Alberta and thanked all the advocates who have worked so long to make this deal happen. “With workers and their families facing higher costs for just about everything, bringing affordable, public child care within reach…

Canada’s unions stand in solidarity with New Brunswick public sector workers & call on Premier Higgs to bargain in good faith

OTTAWA – Instead of lockouts, back-to-work laws and intimidation tactics, New Brunswick Premier Blaine Higgs must start bargaining in good faith with striking public sector workers – many who have toiled tirelessly throughout the pandemic on the frontlines. “On behalf of the Canadian Labour Congress, I want to express our solidarity and support to the Canadian Union of Public Employees…

Government must put the brakes on Bay St. and prevent windfall pandemic payouts

OTTAWA – An upcoming announcement from Canada’s banking regulator has the financial sector salivating at the prospect of gargantuan payouts. Analysts predict that the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions (OSFI) will announce this week that they will relax a ban on dividends and share buybacks. “The banks now want to reward themselves and investors with windfall gains that…

New cabinet must get to work on building an inclusive and equitable recovery

OTTAWA—Bea Bruske released the following statement about the new federal cabinet: “With women so disproportionately impacted by the economic crisis that accompanied the pandemic, it is not enough that Mr. Trudeau appoints a cabinet based on gender parity. The new cabinet must take concrete action to address the significant setbacks to women’s labour force participation over the last 18 months.…

New Cabinet’s top priority must be strengthening Canada’s care economy

This week, the world will mark the Global Day of Action for Care. COVID-19 has devastated families and communities and revealed how care work has been exploited and undervalued. Canada’s unions have written to the Prime Minister to, in the wake of this crisis, direct his new Cabinet to make Canada’s economic recovery equitable and inclusive through real, substantial, and…

Canadian Labour Congress’ President Bea Bruske available to speak about emergency benefits

OTTAWA – President Bea Bruske is available to speak to media today on the urgent need for extending emergency supports to workers affected by the pandemic. EI applications have risen while the Delta variant continues to affect hotspots across the country and supply chains continue to be disrupted. This means it is crucial for the government to immediately extend emergency…

Bruske meets Deputy Prime Minister Freeland to discuss help for workers

OTTAWA—Bea Bruske, President of the Canadian Labour Congress, and Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland, held a constructive meeting today about the challenges working people are still facing as Canada starts on the long road to an economic recovery. “I want to thank Minister Freeland for a positive discussion. Her government has extended vital support throughout the pandemic…

SCC ruling a victory for working women

Bea Bruske, President of the Canadian Labour Congress, released the following statement on the Supreme Court of Canada’s decision in favour of pay equity rights for registered nurses: “Canada’s unions welcome the decision by the Supreme Court of Canada to uphold the pay equity rights of registered nurses working in for-profit nursing homes. This victory came on the heels of…

As clock ticks down, Canada’s unions demand government chooses help for people

OTTAWA—Canada’s unions are urging the federal government to extend emergency benefits to help workers and their families still struggling through the fourth wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. Canada’s recent Labour Force Survey showed that nearly one and a half million people are still looking for work and total hours worked still lag well below pre-pandemic levels. “Behind the headlines, the…

Fourth wave means urgent need to extend emergency help for workers

Emergency benefits due to expire for workers in next two weeks OTTAWA—With the fourth wave raging in many communities and just two weeks before emergency benefits are cut, Canada’s unions are drawing attention to the urgent need to extend emergency benefits for hundreds of thousands of everyday people still relying on these programs. “We are seeing an uneven jobs recovery…

Canada’s unions calling for worker-centred pandemic recovery

Canada’s unions are marking the World Day for Decent Work on October 7, by calling on the federal government to focus on workers in their pandemic recovery plans and replace lost jobs with better ones “The pandemic has highlighted the existing inequity and precarity in Canada’s job market and shone a light on the pervasiveness of work defined by low…

Premiers, PM must listen to Canadians on strengthening health care

Unconditional health transfers won’t solve problems of LTC abuses, nursing shortages or lack of access to primary care With a new First Ministers’ Meeting date not yet set, Canada’s unions are calling on the Premiers and the Prime Minister to listen to the millions of Canadians demanding that new health care funding actually invests in strengthening our public health care…

Canadian unions’ support to Haiti

Canadian unions have responded to an appeal issued by the Confederation of Public and Private Sector Workers of Haiti, the CTSP, as it aims to respond to the recent devastation wrought by the August 14 earthquake, followed two days later by the impact of tropical storm Grace. The estimated impact at the end of August of this double hit was…

UN Day for Older Persons: Canada’s unions call for strong supports for seniors

Canada’s unions are marking the UN Day for Older Persons by highlighting the need for strong pension plans and social supports to help seniors retire in dignity at the end of their career. Canada’s elderly population is growing: Statistics Canada reports that nearly one in every five Canadians is 65 years of age or older. Nearly one in five current…

Canada’s unions call on new federal government to prioritize reconciliation ahead of first National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

Canada’s unions are marking the first National Day for Truth and Reconciliation by strengthening our resolve to fighting for Indigenous rights and justice. “We are committed to working toward reconciliation with First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples and we stand in solidarity with them,” said Bea Bruske, CLC President. “We call on the new federal government to recommit to reconciliation…

Status quo parliament must not return to the status quo

Parliament must get to work on key issues facing workers OTTAWA – Canada’s unions congratulate Justin Trudeau and the Liberal Party on their re-election and offer to work with the government and Parliamentarians from all parties on building a pandemic recovery that addresses the critical challenges facing workers and their families. “Canadians have spoken, and their message is clear: it’s…

Time for workers and their families to make their voices heard

Volunteers from all parts of the labour movement are knocking on doors across the country today, tirelessly getting workers and their families to cast their ballots today for a pandemic economic recovery with working people at its heart. “We are sprinting to the finish line today. Our teams of volunteers are working the phones, texting friends and neighbours, knocking on…

Next federal government must deliver for workers

Pandemic recovery must be built on investments that improve the lives of all Canadians Canada may very well be headed for another minority government and Canada’s unions want the new federal government elected on Monday to hit the ground running and deliver on promises made over the course of election campaign. Elected officials from all stripes must commit to working…

Canada’s unions united with nurses in demanding urgent government action

OTTAWA – As the pandemic strains Canada’s public health care systems, nurses are sounding the alarm that urgent action is needed by all levels of government to fix Canada’s nursing crisis. The Canadian Federation of Nurses Unions and provincial nurses’ unions across Canada are holding a National Day of Action today, making sure our health care system is top of mind…

O’Toole another Conservative who would put our public health care system at risk

With the pandemic pushing provinces to the brink, a federal Conservative government would put Canada’s public health care system in jeopardy. OTTAWA – Health care systems are on the brink. Alberta is witnessing 1,500 new cases a day and rising while their health care system is on the verge of collapse. Saskatchewan saw a record 506 new cases. Cases are spiking…

Conservative O’Toole would mean low-wage recovery that leaves workers behind

Service workers see average wages rise paltry 59 cents during the pandemic, less than a bag of potatoes has gone up Sales and service workers have seen wages rise only 59 cents on average – less than price a bag of potatoes has gone up – since the pandemic struck. There are still nearly 300,000 more unemployed than in February…

CLC President Bea Bruske: Vote to make sure working moms aren’t left behind

Bruske joins group of prominent women demanding all parties make affordable, accessible child care for all a priority OTTAWA—On today’s National Day of Action for early learning and child care, Canadian Labour Congress president, Bea Bruske, joined fifty prominent women and co-signed a letter demanding all candidates and parties commit to accessible and affordable child care for all. “I am proud…

Child care is on the ballot this election

On today’s National Day of Action for affordable quality, accessible, inclusive child care for all, Canada’s unions stand in solidarity with early learning and child care workers and advocates. “We support a publicly funded, universally accessible and affordable early learning and child care system. Without affordable child care, even more women will be pushed out of the labour market,” said…

Canada’s unions stand with hospital workers

Canada’s unions are standing in solidarity with hospital workers amid anti-vaccine protests being held in front of hospitals across the country. “Hospital staff across Canada have been working tirelessly throughout the pandemic, providing essential care and helping to keep our communities safe. Protesting vaccine mandates in front of hospitals where workers are providing life-saving care and some patients are fighting…

O’Toole’s conservative plan risks setting women back

Erin O’Toole poses threat to years of hard-fought gains for working women Women have been pushed to the economic sidelines by the pandemic but Erin O’Toole’s plan risks making things even worse, according to Bea Bruske, President of the Canadian Labour Congress. “Lack of child care during the pandemic forced a lot of women to the economic sidelines while others…

New job numbers show there’s work to be done on economic recovery

Anemic wage growth in Canada as some workers get left behind Canada’s unions are raising the alarm, warning that Statistics Canada’s Labour Force Survey shows signs that the economic recovery is uneven, wage growth for low-paid workers remains weak, and some groups are being left behind. “In the US, wages of lower-skilled workers have begun to rise, but wage growth…

O’Toole on the defensive over his plan to cut billions from child care, end emergency support for workers

During the French debate last night, Conservative leader Erin O’Toole was on the defensive over his vow to tear up child care agreements with the provinces and cut billions from child care just when parents need them most. “For many women, the lack of child care during the pandemic was a key reason they were forced out of the labour…

Conservatives’ fiscal costing leaves critical question unanswered: what will Erin O’Toole cut to balance the budget?

OTTAWA-The Conservatives released their fiscal costing, but still claim they’ll achieve unrealistic growth while magically reducing future spending – leaving a giant hole in their fiscal program. At the same time, Conservatives admitted they’ll cut billions from our social safety net by tearing up child care agreements. “The Conservatives’ swiss-cheese fiscal plan leaves voters with more questions than answers. Erin…

O’Toole would build a social safety net out of hot air

Conservatives release platform costing, but Canadians already have the tally on broken Conservative promises. Canada’s unions are warning that a huge fiscal hole in Erin O’Toole’s platform and proposals that leave workers behind would put Canada’s already weakened social safety net at risk. Experts have been pointing to how the Conservatives’ unrealistic growth projections create a gigantic fiscal gap in…

Bea Bruske: Put working families at the heart of Canada’s recovery

OTTAWA – Bea Bruske, President of the Canadian Labour Congress released the following statement on Labour Day: “Over the past eighteen months, workers and their families have faced unprecedented challenges from a pandemic and fiscal crisis. “Parents faced the pressure of working from home while dealing with their kids’ schooling. Workers faced the anxiety of being thrown out of work…

O’Toole’s dangerous economics risks cuts to health care and services people rely on

Conservative leader Erin O’Toole began his day threatening Canadians with a return to spending cuts, putting health care and other vital public services at risk. “Erin O’Toole is now scaremongering about debt and deficits – a page right out of the classic Conservative playbook. This always leads to healthcare cuts, longer wait times, and fewer nurses and doctors,” said Bruske.…

Canada’s unions release ad reminding working Canadians Erin O’Toole is dangerous

OTTAWA − Canada’s unions are pushing back against Erin O’Toole’s claims around supporting working Canadians with a video containing hard-hitting truths about O’Toole’s real record of letting down workers. “We have seen his rhetoric around supporting working people. But when you look at his record, you start seeing the real O’Toole,’ said Bea Bruske, president of the Canadian Labour Congress.…

Bruske: Uber’s flex work proposal would continue to fail to protect gig workers

Bea Bruske, President of the Canadian Labour Congress, released the following statement about Uber’s “Flexible Work” proposal: “Nobody goes to work asking for more insecurity and vulnerability, but that’s what Uber is offering their workers. These workers are being asked by a giant multinational to give away their rights as employees, and that’s wrong. “This raises the question of whose…

Labour Day Events 2021

Atlantic Nova Scotia Halifax-Dartmouth & District Labour Council Virtual Labour Day celebration partnered with the Mayworks Halifax Festival of Working People and the Arts. The digital/online programming will involve both cultural programming, as well as short video messages from labour leaders. There will also be a bicycle puppet circus, Sunday September 5, 12:00 p.m. Dartmouth Commons and Monday, September 6,…

Record bank profits reveals pandemic’s economic winners and losers

Today, RBC and the National Bank released their third-quarter profits, which came in at $4.3 and $2.3 billion, up from $3.2 billion and $2.0 billion in the same quarter last year, respectively. These immense profits made by Canada’s largest financial institutions are yet another example of how Canada’s wealthiest individuals and corporations have benefitted from the pandemic, while so many…

Bruske welcomes NDP commitment to end profiteering off of seniors’ care

ST. JOHN’S – Canadian Labour Congress president Bea Bruske made the following statement today: “Decades of cuts and privatization in the long-term care sector have had tragic consequences during this crisis. “Early in the pandemic, long-term care homes accounted for four out of every five COVID-19 related deaths in Canada. In Ontario, the Commission into long-term care said for-profit companies…

Canadian Labour Congress President Bea Bruske demands worker-centred recovery

Bruske in St. John’s East to canvass in support of candidate Mary Shortall President Bea Bruske launched the Canadian Labour Congress’ election tour in St. John’s today calling on voters to back candidates who support a recovery focused on workers. She was joined by the Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of Labour to canvass in support of St. John’s East New…

Statement on Mandatory COVID-19 Vaccination

The COVID-19 crisis is not over. COVID-19 is not the seasonal flu. It is much more deadly and has inflicted far greater damage on our health system, our economy, our livelihoods and the individual health of Canadians. Canada’s unions strongly support vaccination against COVID-19 for every Canadian that can be vaccinated. Science has demonstrated that vaccinations – alongside other measures…

O’Toole speaks out of both sides of his mouth on pensions

Conservative O’Toole spent career defending large corporations, can workers trust him now to stand up to his Bay St. buddies? Erin O’Toole’s pensions announcement today is long on rhetoric about concern for workers, but short on real answers to helping workers and pensioners in need. “Mr. O’Toole and the Conservatives’ platform doesn’t say if workers and pensioners will come before…

O’Toole’s rhetoric cannot hide his record of hurting workers

Erin O’Toole has proven time and again he is no friend of working Canadians Erin O’Toole’s policy announcement today was short on details and left more questions than answers. Canadians are left asking: • Would worker representatives have the same rights and powers as the other Board directors? • Will they have access to all the same financial and corporate…

Canadian workers to political leaders: it’s high time for paid sick leave

Canadian Labour Congress (CLC) President Bea Bruske welcomes the Liberal party’s election commitment to introduce 10 paid days of sick leave for workers falling under federal jurisdiction. Canada’s unions have been calling for paid sick leave from the earliest days of the pandemic. “Access to paid sick days reduces the spread of COVID and helps workers who keep our economy…

Hidden in Conservative platform: An attack on public pensions and EI

Conservatives would relegate gig workers to second-class citizens in Canada’s workforce OTTAWA – Hidden in Erin O’Toole’s Conservative policy platform is a kick in the teeth for the retirement and job security of gig workers. “Conservatives have a policy plan that includes a blatant attack on public pensions. They would permanently relegate gig workers to second-class status in Canada’s workforce,”…

Canada’s unions welcome certification of Uber class action

The Canadian Labour Congress (CLC) welcomes today’s decision from the Ontario Superior Court of Justice in favour of Uber drivers seeking legal recognition of their status as drivers. Uber drivers successfully petitioned the court to certify a class action on behalf of all Uber drivers and delivery workers who submit they are employees misclassified as independent contractors. “All workers should…

Canada’s unions encouraged by continued job market recovery but urge parties to stay focused on the long road ahead

Canada’s unions are calling on elected leaders to stay focused on running the economy hot, allowing a high-pressure economy to fuel demand for labour and boost wages. While Statistics Canada’s latest job numbers for July demonstrate another strong month for job gains, achieving pre-pandemic measures of employment and unemployment would only return Canada to the highly unequal, and for many,…

Governments must honour Emancipation Day by addressing systemic racism

Canada’s unions are calling on governments at every level to mark Canada’s first national recognition of Emancipation Day by addressing systemic racism in employment experienced by Black workers. Emancipation Day has been observed in Ontario since 2008, but this year it will be commemorated across Canada for the first time. Over a year into the pandemic and one year after…

CLC Statement on the fatal crane collapse in Kelowna, BC

Today we learned that five people lost their lives, and more were injured due to the tragic crane collapse in Kelowna, BC. The Canadian Labour Congress (CLC) extends its deepest condolences to the families, coworkers and friends of those people who didn’t return from work, as well as to those who suffered injuries and trauma as a result of this…

Job numbers show pandemic’s hardest hit continue to struggle most

Canada’s unions are raising the alarm that hundreds of thousands of workers are facing cutbacks to pandemic supports, while the job market remains far from recovery. “Our biggest concern is those workers who are at risk of dropping out of the labour market altogether. “Many workers are just giving up because they can’t find work, or because a lack of…

Open Letter to the Working People of Canada

Friends and Allies, A few short weeks ago, I was truly honoured to be elected to serve the working people of Canada as president of the Canadian Labour Congress. My fellow officers and I do not take this responsibility lightly – and it is not a job anyone can do alone. We are counting on you for your support ……

Net-zero law lays foundation for stronger climate action

Canada’s unions are welcoming the Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act, which received royal assent and became law. This new law enshrines Canada’s commitment to reach net-zero emissions by 2050. It also provides a foundation to build on to ensure the country breaks its track record of having missed every climate target it has ever set. “This law provides a path…

Canada’s unions say this Canada Day is a time for reconciliation, not celebration

In light of the recent discovery of the remains of nearly 1,000 children at former residential schools, this Canada day needs to be about reflection and action. Canada’s unions are calling for July 1st celebrations to be replaced this year with actions in support of reconciliation with First Nations, Métis and Inuit people across the country. “Indigenous people and their…

Canada’s unions welcome new hate speech provisions, express concern about timing

Canada’s unions are cautiously welcoming proposed federal legislative amendments to make it easier to prosecute and hold accountable purveyors of hate speech. The federal government tabled amendments to the Canadian Human Rights Act, the Criminal Code and the Youth Criminal Justice Act on Wednesday. Yet Canada’s unions say the timing is disappointing, as the House’s adjournment for the summer and…

Canada’s unions warn that new Disability Benefit Act doesn’t go far enough

Canada’s unions are warning that a new disability benefit doesn’t go far enough to support people with disabilities, especially those who are struggling because of COVID-19. Earlier this week, Carla Qualtrough, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability Inclusion tabled Bill C-35: The Canada Disability Benefit Act. While the benefit is a welcome step, Canada’s unions joined disability rights groups…

Canada’s unions elect new leaders to help chart a hopeful post-pandemic future for workers

(Ottawa – June 18, 2021) Nearly 4,000 delegates at the Canadian Labour Congress’ 29th Constitutional Convention today elected Officers to lead the organization until 2023. The Canadian Labour Congress (CLC) is Canada’s major umbrella organization of national unions, provincial federations of labour and local labour councils and represents over three million workers. Bea Bruske from United Food and Commercial Workers…

Canada’s unions call for strengthened rights and protections for domestic workers

Canada’s unions are marking International Domestic Workers Day by calling on the federal government to increase access to services and protections for domestic workers and to ratify the International Labour Organization’s (ILO) Convention 189 on decent work for domestic workers. The COVID-19 pandemic has hit domestic workers hard – as of June 2020, the ILO estimated that approximately 72.3% of global domestic…

Canada’s unions condemn hate-motivated terrorist attack against Canadian Muslim family; express concern over rising incidents of hate

Canada’s unions unequivocally condemn the recent escalation of hate crimes and violence against members of numerous racialized and religious minority communities across the country. The most recent and tragic hate-motivated attack occurred on Sunday in London, Ontario. A Muslim family out for an evening walk were plowed down by a lone driver which resulted in the murder of four family…

National AccessAbility Week: Canada’s unions call for elimination of barriers to employment, launch new handbook

Canada’s unions are marking National AccessAbility Week by calling on the federal government to remove barriers to employment and increase economic security for people with disabilities. Observed from May 30 to June 5, National AccessAbility Week is an opportunity to celebrate and advance accessibility and inclusion in our workplaces and communities. “Everyone benefits when workplaces are accessible,” said Larry Rousseau,…

Canada’s unions are calling for meaningful investments to support 2SLGBTQI communities

Canada’s unions are marking this year’s Pride season by calling on the federal government to invest in 2SLGBTQI community organizations to ensure that our most vulnerable communities are not left behind in pandemic recovery. “Pride is and has always been political, with deep roots in protest and resistance,” said Larry Rousseau, CLC Executive Vice-President. “As we enter the second Pride…

Canada should crack down on tax evasion and put that revenue to good use

By Hassan Yussuff Buried in the government’s 724-page federal budget is an important commitment that has yet to receive its fair share of praise: the promise to increase corporate transparency and crack down on tax evasion and money laundering. Taken on its own, the budget’s promise to create a “public beneficial ownership registry” does not mean much to the average…

Canada’s unions call for urgent action to address hate crimes against 2SLGBTQI people

Canada’s unions are marking the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia (IDAHOTB) by urging the federal government to address the rise in hate crimes against 2SLGBTQI communities in Canada. “There is no place for homophobic, transphobic or biphobic violence in our communities,” said Larry Rousseau, Executive Vice-President of the Canadian Labour Congress (CLC). “Two Spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans…

Canada’s unions support C-253, legislation to protect workers in the event of company insolvency

Canada’s unions are pleased to see the Members of Parliament taking action to put workers and retirees first in the event of an organization’s insolvency filing by moving Bill C-253, introduced by MP Marilène Gill, forward to study by parliamentary committee. “We urge all parties to adopt this legislation,” said Hassan Yussuff, President of the Canadian Labour Congress (CLC). “Workers…

Canadian unions condemn violence in Colombia

Canadian unions stand in solidarity with hundreds of thousands of Colombian workers and citizens peacefully demonstrating since the April 28 launch of a General Strike against tax reform. The reform would have disproportionately impact the poorest people by eliminating subsidies on some public services, taxing pensions, and freezing public sector wages. The Colombian government has responded with excessive force in…

Canada’s unions mark Westray anniversary with call to hold negligent employers accountable

Canada’s unions are marking the anniversary of the Westray mining disaster by calling for negligent employers to be held accountable in the event of a workplace death or injury, through effective enforcement of the Westray law. The first known criminal probe into a COVID-19 workplace outbreak occurred this past January when the RCMP initiated a criminal investigation into the May…

Canada’s unions call for strong recovery measures as job losses rise

The number of Canadians without work for over a year has tripled during the pandemic. Canada’s unions are calling for swift government action to address rising unemployment evident in today’s latest job numbers. April’s Labour Force Survey released by Statistics Canada this morning shows that Canada’s economic recovery continues to be uneven, with youth, women and low-wage workers still struggling…

Canada’s unions mark May Day by calling on governments to prioritize workers and their families

Canada’s unions are marking May Day by urging the federal government to act quickly to implement its most recent budget promises, which include significant investments in child care, job creation and skills training. May Day is an annual celebration held every May 1st during which workers from around the world celebrate the achievements made by trade unions. This year, the…

National Day of Mourning: the human cost of COVID-19

By Hassan Yussuff as published in The Hamilton Spectator Every year, workers and their families come together on April 28, the National Day of Mourning, to mourn those lost to workplace illness and injuries. This year, Canada’s unions are shining a light on the human cost of the COVID-19 pandemic. The enduring call to “Mourn the Dead; Fight for the…

We need smart public policy to address vaccine hesitancy

When the first COVID-19 vaccines were injected into the arms of Canadians last December, there was a widespread sense of optimism as people could see the beginning of the end of this pandemic. Now, with more contagious and deadly variants surging in most regions of the country, this third wave threatens to be the most-deadly phase of the pandemic that…

Budget 2021: Canada’s unions welcome ‘crucial’ funding for child care, skills training and $15 federal minimum wage

Canada’s unions are applauding significant investments in child care, training and skills development and a $15 federal minimum wage, in addition to a further expansion of emergency benefits announced in today’s federal budget. “This budget will bring some relief to the country’s workers and their families. Women workers have long borne the brunt of the absence of high-quality, universal child…

Top five labour demands ahead of upcoming federal budget

OTTAWA – Canada’s unions are calling on the federal government to focus on the country’s social safety net in its budget to be released Monday, prioritizing five key demands. “The devastating effects of the pandemic were made worse by years of austerity by successive governments,” said Hassan Yussuff, President of the Canadian Labour Congress (CLC). “As a result of cuts, the…

Latest job numbers encouraging but a lot rides on federal job investments

OTTAWA – Canada’s unions are calling on the federal government to create more than one million jobs in the upcoming budget, pointing to today’s job numbers as further evidence of the need for expanded investments. Statistics Canada released its latest Labour Force Survey today. It shows that more than 1.5 million unemployed and under-employed workers continue to struggle to find work,…

Webinar: Digital Organizing for Social Change – Action Hour*

When: Wednesday, April 14 at 7 p.m. (EDT) https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZwpdeqvqTwrGtKlHsn07lm6RKW_wxjdr0MB *Note: This session will be presented in English only. It’s not enough to just organize offline anymore, especially during a pandemic. We need to use digital tools to meet people where they are at, engage them, and mobilize them to take action. This hands-on workshop — led by Anna Reynoso (Senior…

Budget 2021: Canada’s unions call for strong measures to help pandemic recovery

As people in Canada continue to struggle with the impacts of COVID-19, workers and their families need strong measures to help ensure a healthy economic recovery when the pandemic is over. In Budget 2021, the federal government will unveil its roadmap towards economic recovery. The CLC recently presented its recommendations for Budget 2021 in a pre-budget submission to the government.…

Labour: protect worker rights, not gig employers

The Canadian Labour Congress and provincial and territorial federations of labour find Uber’s self serving proposal for Flexible Work+ dangerous, undermining and offensive to the rights and dignity of workers. The plan, rolled out over the past few weeks, signals the companies’ intention to pressure governments to invent a niche category for app-based employment. Like Proposition 22 in California, Uber…

Canada’s unions welcome extension of EI and recovery benefits

Canada’s unions welcome the extension to income supports announced by the federal government today as a necessary step towards providing further financial security to those who need it. The government announced 12-week extensions for both the Canada Recovery Benefit (CRB) and the Canada Recovery Caregiving Benefit (CRCB), as well as an additional 24 weeks of eligibility for Employment Insurance. “This will…

Too many people are struggling to pay for their medications

By Hassan Yussuff, Doug Roth, Linda Silas, as published in Toronto Star A silent health crisis is looming as more people struggle to pay for their prescription drugs. Even before the pandemic, the statistics were staggering. About 7.5 million citizens—one in five Canadians—either did not have prescription drug insurance or had inadequate insurance to cover their medication needs. One…

Latest job numbers point to need for urgent extension of EI benefits and job retraining

OTTAWA – Canada’s unions are urgently calling on the federal government to extend EI and recovery benefits along with increasing support for skills retraining as workers continue to struggle with rising unemployment. Following higher than expected job losses at the end of 2020, workers faced another large drop in employment, with 213,000 jobs lost last month. “We’ve lost the small…

EI for the 21st Century

Canada’s Employment Insurance (EI) program is falling short. Over the past year, the shortcomings of the program have become all the more clear. EI needs to be reformed to match the current reality of the world of work. Read our recommendations for EI reform here.

End-of-year unemployment data shows need for continued support for workers

“Even as the vaccine roll-out begins, we can see that the tough times aren’t behind us yet,” said Canadian Labour Congress President Hassan Yussuff. “The end-of-year unemployment data remind us that strong government support continues to be a vital lifeline for workers and their families who are struggling through the economic shock of the pandemic.” The December Labour Force Survey,…

Lessons from 2020: The pandemic brought out the best in Canada’s workers

“Canada’s unions are marking the end of 2020 by looking back on all that has been accomplished to protect workers and their families through the COVID-19 pandemic. The world has been forever changed, but people across Canada have come together to focus on our collective good. Though the pandemic is not over and there is continued uncertainty, I have no…

Canada’s unions call for pathway to permanent residency for all migrant workers

Canada’s unions are marking International Migrants Day by calling on the federal government to offer a pathway to permanent residency to all migrant workers who wish to apply. The federal government recently announced that it will be accepting applications for permanent residence from refugee claimants working in the healthcare sector. This important announcement recognizes the crucial contributions refugee workers have…

Canada’s unions welcome new bill to adopt Indigenous rights framework

Canada’s unions welcome the federal government’s recent announcement and subsequent tabling of a bill to implement the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People (UNDRIP), a commitment which was to be fulfilled before the end of the year. The new bill, Bill C-15, comes four years after former NDP MP Romeo Saganash introduced Bill C-262, a similar private…

Canada’s unions welcome federal government commitments on climate change

OTTAWA – Coming on the heels of the government’s climate accountability legislation, today’s 2030 climate emissions reduction plan contains significant announcements for working people. Expanded investments in energy efficiency, conservation and large-scale retrofitting of residential and commercial structures will create significant numbers of new jobs and require expanded investments in skills training and growing Canada’s construction trades. Green and climate-resilient…

Human Rights Day: equitable COVID-19 recovery requires investment in care

Canada’s unions are marking International Human Rights Day by calling for long-term investments in the care sector. “Recover Better – Stand Up for Human Rights” is the United Nations theme for this year’s International Human Rights Day, which is observed December 10. “It is critical that Canada’s COVID-19 recovery efforts tackle the human rights failures that have been exposed by…

Latest job numbers signal bleak winter ahead

OTTAWA – Canada’s unions are raising the alarm that many workers are facing a bleak winter of unemployment and under-employment with no immediate relief in sight. November’s labour force survey released today by Statistics Canada showed high rates of long-term unemployment. A total of 1.5 million people are currently unemployed and looking for work; 400,000 have been without work for…

Darryl Flasch – Winner of the 2020 Carol McGregor CLC Disability Rights Award

Every year on December 3, the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, the Canadian Labour Congress will recognize a union member for their disability rights activism. This award is named in honour of Carol McGregor, an outstanding disability rights activist, member of BCGEU/NUPGE and the CLC Disability Rights Working Group―and who was much loved by all those who worked with…

Workers with disabilities must help shape Canada’s Disability Inclusion Strategy

Canada’s unions are marking December 3 – the International Day for Persons with Disabilities –by calling on the federal government to include persons with disabilities in Canada’s economic recovery strategy. Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, Canada’s unions have collaborated with disability rights coalitions like the Include Me Campaign, to highlight the unique challenges and barriers faced by persons…

Canada’s unions mark World AIDS Day by calling for universal pharmacare

Canada’s unions are marking World AIDS Day by calling on the federal government to implement single-payer, universal pharmacare. This call has taken on new urgency, given that millions of workers have lost their jobs due to COVID-19 and are now struggling to pay for their prescription medications. World AIDS Day is observed every year on December 1, in support of…

Fiscal update’s emphasis on investments will spare Canadians further economic hardship and spur recovery

Canada’s unions say the federal government’s fiscal update will help the nation’s workers weather current health and economic hardships through the pandemic. Today’s update extends critical income support and economic measures to help Canadians and businesses. While today’s commitments on key priorities remain modest and reflect past promises, the government has signalled it will make further investments as the recovery…

Canada’s unions to respond to federal government’s fiscal update

Canada’s unions will be responding to the federal government’s Economic and Fiscal Snapshot, scheduled for Monday, November 30. Canada’s unions have been calling for targeted federal investments to help workers and their families get through the pandemic and to ensure a swift economic rebound and recovery. Hassan Yussuff, President of the Canadian Labour Congress, will be available to comment once…

Canada’s unions call for a National Action plan on Gender-Based Violence

Canada’s unions are marking the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women by calling on the federal government to establish a National Action Plan on Violence against Women and Gender-based Violence. The International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women – observed every year on November 25 – also marks the start of 16 Days of Activism…

Federal government’s new bill on climate change an important step on the hard road ahead

Canada’s unions are welcoming the tabling of new federal legislation that puts the country on track to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to zero by 2050. However, there is much work to do to get there, said Hassan Yussuff, president of the Canadian Labour Congress. “This bill provides a solid path towards reaching Canada’s targets. That being said, it will take…

CLC joins global unions in calling on G20 leaders to lay foundation for a New Social Contract

The Canadian Labour Congress joins trade unions from around the world to urge leaders of the G20 to heed the call from the Labour 20 Group to take all necessary measures to contain and eliminate the pandemic and lay the foundation for a New Social Contract as the cornerstone for ensuring recovery and resilience. The L20 statement to the G20…

Canada’s unions say slowing job recovery necessitates urgent government intervention

Canada’s job growth is showing signs of slowdown and Canada’s unions are calling on the federal government to quickly lay out its plan to stem long-term unemployment. The latest figures from this morning’s release of Statistics Canada’s Labour Force Survey demonstrates a weakening jobs rebound. The survey showed a slowing recovery, with employment rising just 0.5 percent in October, a…

Canada’s unions launch nation’s first-ever virtual lobby week

OTTAWA – Hundreds of workers from communities across Canada are meeting virtually with their MPs this week, part of the country’s first-ever national Action Week, organized by Canada’s unions. Participants will be calling on elected representatives to push for federal investments towards job creation, health care and child care, among other necessary programs. Over 200 meetings are scheduled. “The pandemic…

Canada’s unions welcome increased federal immigration targets

Ottawa – Canada’s unions are applauding the federal government’s announcement today that it plans to welcome more than 1.2 million immigrants to Canada over the next three years. The proposed plan will bring skilled workers, family members and refugees to Canada between 2021 and 2023. “For many years, Canada’s unions have called on the government to increase immigration targets. We…

Canada’s unions hosting virtual Action Week

People from across Canada will be lobbying MPs next week, in the first large-scale virtual lobbying event since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic exposed deep disparities and vulnerabilities in our economy and society. It has also radically changed the lives of people across Canada. Workers want the federal government to disaster-proof the economy by committing to investments…

Canada’s unions join Global Day of Action on Care

The COVID-19 pandemic exposed the vulnerability of Canada’s care system. On October 29, Canada’s unions are joining together the International Trade Union Confederation and global unions for a Global Day of Action on Care. Workers around the world want investment in public health and care services including mental health, child care, early childhood education, elderly care and other social care…

Canada’s unions welcome employment gains, but urge continued focus on jobs

OTTAWA – Canada’s unions welcome the job gains reported in the September findings from Statistics Canada’s monthly labour force survey released today, but are warning that expanded government investment will remain crucial to a full economic recovery. “Despite ongoing gains, the latest numbers continue to signal medium-term risks to Canada’s labour market,” said Hassan Yussuff, President of the Canadian Labour…

Canada’s unions encourage donations to local food banks to mark Thanksgiving

Like so many other occasions, Thanksgiving won’t be the same this year due to COVID-19. Rates of COVID-19 are rising again, and many people in Canada will mark the holiday with fewer people around the table. What is not on the table will also be a source of anxiety and trepidation as growing numbers of individuals and families struggle with…

Canada’s unions have a plan to move us forward

By Hassan Yussuff, as published in The Hill Times As we transition from reacting to COVID-19 to living with the virus, Canada’s unions are providing a clear blueprint for a robust recovery that leaves no one behind and addresses the inequities laid bare by the pandemic. Workers and their families have been hit hard by this crisis. Practically overnight, millions…

A robust immigration system is key to our recovery

By Hassan Yussuff, as published in The Province COVID-19 has forced rethinks on many aspects of our lives that we previously took for granted. That includes thinking about how our communities function, and specifically about who ensures that they continue to, even in times of upheaval. This has brought more visibility to the workers who many of us don’t often…

Canada’s unions: Throne Speech signals commitment to invest in workers

OTTAWA – Canada’s unions welcome the policy direction the government has laid out in today’s Speech from the Throne, with a focus on investing in job creation and social programs that will support those most impacted by the pandemic. “The government is making it clear that it is listening to the concerns of workers and their families by recognizing that…

Canada’s unions call for a feminist recovery plan

Canada’s unions are marking Gender Equality Week by calling on the federal government to ensure a recovery plan that is rooted in equity and leaves no one behind. This year’s week-long commemoration is happening against the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic and the Speech from the Throne. “This pandemic has laid bare the gender inequities in our society,” said Marie…

Throne speech must move the country forward

OTTAWA – Canada’s unions are calling on the federal government to make firm commitments towards investing in the country’s economic recovery in the upcoming Speech from the Throne. “Social programs like national pharmacare and child care will help to rectify structural inequities that this pandemic has made all the more clear,” said Hassan Yussuff, President of the Canadian Labour Congress.…

Canada’s unions celebrate BC court rejection of private health care

OTTAWA – Canada’s unions applaud the decision by the BC Supreme Court to uphold the integrity of the country’s single-payer health care system. The Cambie Surgeries Centre case put Canada’s public medicare system on trial and threatened the principle of universal and equal access to health care. The court’s decision to reject the arguments made by Dr. Brian Day is a…

The fate of Canada’s workers is intertwined with COVID-19

By Hassan Yussuff, as published in The Globe and Mail Last year, workers in Canada marked the 100th anniversary of the 1919 Winnipeg General Strike. It was the largest labour uprising in the country’s history and paved the way for reforms that redefined fair and safe working conditions across the nation. Yet, in all the commemorations, a major part of…

Canada, let’s do better

By Hassan Yussuff, as published in the Toronto Star As we continue to cope with the challenges of COVID-19, we must recognize the opportunity presented by such massive upheaval, and move to implement deep social change in our communities. We must re-imagine what our society can be and re-shape the country to address long ignored inequities – inequities that this…

On Labour Day, the nation’s unions launch a plan to disaster-proof Canada

Ottawa – To mark Labour Day, Canada’s unions are calling on all levels of government to focus on investments and community supports to help restart our economies and protect Canadians. Forward Together: A Canadian Plan is a new campaign centred on ensuring that Canada is ready to disaster-proof our nation so that no one is left behind when crisis hits.…

Labour Day Events 2020

September 7 marks Labour Day, one of the most important days on the calendar for workers. This year we will be celebrating differently. We can’t gather for the usual parades and celebrations because of COVID-19 safety restrictions, so we are inviting you to celebrate online. Find a virtual event near you: Newfoundland Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of Labour Live streamed…

Canada’s unions encouraged by EI reforms

OTTAWA – The Canadian Labour Congress (CLC) welcomes today’s federal government announcement that it will extend the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB), introduce much needed reforms to Employment Insurance (EI) to provide better protections for the country’s unemployed workers including the introduction of a minimum floor on benefits, and provide 10 paid sick days. Millions of people have been relying…

Labour’s vision for the 2021 federal budget

Canada is in the midst of an economic crisis that has disproportionately affected low-paid, vulnerable workers in precarious employment, especially women, young workers, newcomers, workers of colour and workers with disabilities. Federal fiscal policy measures must prioritize helping Canadians return to decent jobs. This means expanding access to training and apprenticeship opportunities. Canada’s unions believe the federal government should use…

‘Safe Restart’ agreement helps pave the path forward

OTTAWA – Canada’s unions are welcoming the inclusion of job-protected sick leave in the ‘Safe Restart’ agreement reached between the federal, provincial and territorial governments. “We were very glad to see sick leave specifically mentioned in this agreement,” said Canadian Labour Congress President, Hassan Yussuff. “Canada’s unions have been fighting for paid sick leave for all workers. This ensures that…

Canada’s unions urge government to stay on fiscal track

OTTAWA – The fiscal update released today shows that there is still room for economic expansion by the federal government. Canada’s approach so far has been measured and proportionate, with spending in line with other G7 countries. “A single deficit number does not tell the full story. If we look at the total debt to GDP ratio, Canada is still…

Government must continue to invest in workers and families

In anticipation of today’s fiscal update, Canada’s unions are calling on the federal government to hold steady on investing in the nation’s workers. The federal government moved quickly to respond to the economic fallout precipitated by COVID-19. Since March, the government has spent heavily on a variety of programs that ensure workers and businesses received support throughout this crisis. “The…

Canada’s unions welcome extension of income supports

OTTAWA – Canada’s unions welcome the expansion of the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB), which will come as a relief to the millions of Canadians who can’t yet return to work. “This is very good news for the millions of Canadians who still don’t have a job they can go back to and were growing concerned about paying their bills,”…