Canada’s unions back firm stand on trade, call for stronger worker supports and good union jobs

OTTAWA — Canadian Labour Congress President Bea Bruske met with Prime Minister Mark Carney and national union leaders today, telling the Prime Minister that Canada’s unions stand behind the decision to walk away from a bad trade deal and are ready for the difficult fight ahead.

“Walking away was the right decision. Canada’s workers are behind our country in this fight,” said Bruske. “But as the trade war escalates, supports for workers must keep pace.”

Bruske urged the government to strengthen Employment Insurance by increasing benefit levels, lowering qualifying requirements so more workers can access EI, and extending how long benefits last. She also stressed that support must reach workers who lose their jobs because of the broader economic fallout from tariffs, not only those directly affected, and called on Canada’s banks to provide temporary mortgage and loan relief to workers who lose jobs or income because of the trade war.

Bruske joined labour leaders in calling for a long-term industrial strategy that creates good union jobs and strengthens Canada’s domestic capacity. Public investments and major projects should come with strong labour conditions, including prevailing wages, apprenticeships, community benefits agreements and project labour agreements.

Finally, Bruske warned against weakening collective bargaining rights through the current Canada Labour Code review.

“Workers are being asked to stand together for Canada. This is not the time to drive a wedge between workers and their government by weakening their right to strike,” said Bruske. “We need to protect the unity this moment demands.”

Bruske also offered the CLC as a partner as Canada works to diversify trade, pointing to the labour movement’s strong relationships with unions in the United States and around the world.

“Canada’s unions are ready to help build a stronger, more resilient country and make sure workers are at the centre of what comes next.”

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