“We have been clear from the outset that this is an existential crisis that demands a united and coordinated response that meets the seriousness of this moment,” said NLFL President Jessica McCormick. “President Trump has started a trade war that is going to have a devastating impact on our province. We must take all necessary steps to protect jobs, protect workers, safeguard our economy, and plan for the future.” 

“A coordinated approach, relying on a united front between government, industry, and labour is essential to ensuring Newfoundland and Labrador maintains its economic stability and protects its workers and communities from trade disruptions and their far-reaching impacts,” said McCormick. “We must stand together in the face of this unprecedented attack on our country and our people.” 

McCormick is a member of the Premier’s Roundtable on Trade and is playing a lead role in ensuring that the voices, concerns, and needs of workers are heard and acted upon as the provincial government manages and responds to these tariffs.  

The NLFL is recommending and advocating for a comprehensive response that includes: 

·         Income supports for workers 

·         Enhancements to employment insurance 

·         Transition, upskilling, and education pathways for workers 

·         Long-term economic diversification planning 

·         Strategic planning to reduce reliance on American trade markets 

·         Procurement directives 

·         Promoting local and Canadian made products 

·         Liquidity supports for affected industries and businesses to protect jobs 

·         Strong retaliatory measures 

While many of these measures require federal government capacity and action, the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador must also use whatever levers are available to supplement federal efforts. 
 
“Newfoundlanders and Labradorians are no stranger to adversity, and we have always leaned on each other to get through challenging times together,” said McCormick. “I have no doubt that we will come together to face this trade war head on. Unions will be front and center in that effort.” 

The post U.S. Tariffs: Labour Federation Calls for Bold, United Response to Protect Workers and Economy   appeared first on Newfoundland & Labrador Federation of Labour.

Workers power Newfoundland and Labrador’s economy, yet we face rising costs and stagnant wages. At the grocery store and in the housing market, we’re being priced out. According to a recent report by the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives, the living wage has increased again this year in Newfoundland and Labrador. Essential items like food, rent, and utilities are becoming increasingly unaffordable, making it harder for families to make ends meet. The richest among us are reaping the benefits of our hard work.

Corporate greed is inflating prices, leaving ordinary people to foot the bill. Housing has become a luxury few can afford, and our paycheques are stretched thin. While the gap between the rich and the poor continues to widen, some politicians pit us against each other to distract from their allegiance to the wealthy elite.

Political leaders who side with corporate interests, and who oppose and delay legislation that would make life more affordable, do not support workers. We’ve seen how some politicians undermine workers’ rights. They’ve done this by supporting back-to-work legislation. They’ve remained silent while workers’ right to collective bargaining and to strike are eroded. While some provinces take progressive steps to important labour laws, others, through their inaction, tip the scales in favour of employers and corporate interests.

Workers won’t accept politicians who fail us.

We won’t let generations of struggle and sacrifice be undone. It’s time to hold politicians accountable and ensure they work for us, not just for those at the top. A better deal for workers means making wealthy corporations pay their fair share in taxes, and reinvesting in community-strengthening programs. Accessible healthcare, social services, and affordable housing are necessities in a fair society. These investments will create a stronger, more resilient economy that benefits everyone.

Unions are our best tool to push for fair treatment and hold corporations accountable. It’s time for the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador to make it easier for workers to join a union by implementing card-check certification. Through card-check certification, our Government would protect workers from intimidation, threats and bullying from anti-union employers and their agents, helping to bring democracy to workplaces by respecting workers’ right to unionize.

Unions have always been at the forefront of the fight for workers’ rights, advocating for fair wages, safe working conditions, and job security. This Labour Day, let’s stand together and demand a better deal for workers. Together, we can create a society where every worker can live with dignity and respect.

The post Labour Day Message from NLFL President Jessica McCormick appeared first on Newfoundland & Labrador Federation of Labour.

Join the campaign. Visit workerstogether.ca to find out how.

This year, workers, unions and community leaders will gather in the following regions on Monday, September 2 to celebrate Labour Day:

St. John’s
Union walk starting at Quidi Vidi Lake (11:30 to 12:00) followed by a family BBQ at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 56, Pleasantville

Corner Brook
Family Fun Day and BBQ at Margaret Bowater Park, O’Connell Drive, Corner Brook
1:00pm to 4:00pm

Central
Parade with Family Day BBQ and Concert starting at Main Street, Grand Falls Windsor (Old CN Station), finishing at Grand Falls Windsor Town Hall, High Street
10:00am to 12:00pm

The post Labour Day 2024 in Newfoundland and Labrador appeared first on Newfoundland & Labrador Federation of Labour.