NLFL STATEMENT – Federal Tariff Support Measures Inadequate for Needs of Workers
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On Friday, March 7 the federal government announced the initial round of measures to support the economy and protect workers.
Details can be found here – https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/tariff-supports-canada-1.7477536
These initial tariff protection measures reveal an inadequate response to the crisis facing our members. The announced actions fall short of providing the comprehensive support workers across our province and country need right now.
Real protection requires considerations for wage stability, job security provisions, adequate EI enhancements, industry transition support, and pathways for re/upskilling.
The existing EI program provides inadequate supports for workers at risk of job loss as it is. Rather than continuing to tinker with EI each time a crisis arises, government must follow through on the commitment to reform the EI system for all workers, not just those in trade-exposed industries.
These reforms must include:
- Implementing a universal 360 hours to qualify for EI regular or special benefits
- Extending the duration of EI regular benefits and extend the claims of workers already on claim. This would include the many seasonal workers in Newfoundland and Labrador who are facing uncertainty this fishing season
- Increasing the EI benefit level to ensure meaningful income replacement
These are just some of the reforms the labour movement has been calling for.
Workers demand better – they need and deserve bold action. We can’t be in this together if workers are left to navigate these uncertain times without adequate support.
The Federal government must expand the suite of supports for workers to meet the moment.
