On Labour Day, Canada’s unions launch national campaign demanding a better deal for all workers

September 2, 2024

OTTAWA – This Labour Day, Canada’s unions are launching “Workers Together: For a better deal,” a worker-led initiative to tackle corporate greed, make life more affordable, and hold anti-worker politicians accountable. The Canadian Labour Congress (CLC) is leading the way for workers across the country. Join us at workerstogether.ca to take action and make our voices heard. 

“Canada’s working class is being pushed to the brink. Families do everything right to get ahead, yet groceries, housing, and other essentials fall further out of reach. Workers deserve a better deal – and unions are the key to unlocking it,” said Bea Bruske, President of the CLC. “Workers Together is by workers, for workers. With the support of unions, it amplifies workers’ voices for a better future.”

With this national campaign, Canada’s unions are working with their members and workers across the country to advance the pressing issues facing working families.

Poverty rates are rising, with seniors, Indigenous and racialized communities, and people with disabilities disproportionately affected. Surging housing costs are stretching household budgets to breaking point.

Alarmingly, only two in five workers can access Employment Insurance when they need it and workplace pensions have become increasingly rare, leaving many Canadians without a financial safety net. These challenges are compounded by a care system in crisis. At the same time, wealth inequality continues to widen, as the richest Canadians and large corporations amass record profits. 

“This growing disparity is unacceptable,” warned Bruske. “We’re seeing a system that favours the wealthiest while leaving hardworking Canadians behind. Workers have had enough.”

Canada’s unions are advocating for programs and services that will improve the lives of all workers, such as affordable housing, improved public health care, expanded pharmacare, Employment Insurance reform, and investments in public transit and a sustainable economy. 

Bruske added: “Workers together is about workers coming together and ensuring we have pro-worker voices in government to hold big corporations accountable. Politicians like Poilievre talk big and then vote against workers’ interests when it matters. It’s time to expose these anti-worker politicians and demand real support for working people.”

“From the workplace, to the checkout, to Parliament: Workers deserve respect, not just on Labour Day but every day,” emphasized Bruske.

For more information, visit https://workerstogether.ca

CBC Story: After a brief retreat, politicians are again clamouring for the notwithstanding clause

November 13, 2024
Click to open the link

Canada’s unions demand respect for port workers and fair negotiations – not political interference

November 12, 2024
Click to open the link