The Grey Bruce Labour Council says Labour Day is a chance for unions to highlight the important role unions play in making life better for everyone.
Bruce County Vice-President Dave Trumble says it is time to reset the economy.
"Organized labour has stepped the game up and said it is time for perhaps a little bit of a regroup and a reset," he said. "We're just not going to live in a situation where people can't support themselves anymore. So everyday does have a true theme this year and again it is the year of the union."
Trumble said this year unions are fighting to make sure workers can afford food, fuel, and housing
"Look along the shoreline, you're talking about homes starting, at half a million dollars and it only goes up very quickly from there," explained Trumble. "So yeah, how do you find any possibility of being successful in that market? You know, not to mention the fact that even if you're able to find the downpayment, how do you feed yourself?"
Trumble noted that “in 2023 about one third of Canada’s workforce is represented by a union, and the gains they have made continue to improve the lives of every worker in this country”.
The Labour Council pointed out that for over one hundred years, unions have had a track record of winning for all workers. Thanks to unions, workers benefit from the provisions of occupational health and safety laws, new investments in healthcare, commitments for ten-dollar-a-day childcare programs in all provinces and pension protections for workers where employers experience bankruptcy.
"Whether workers are unionized or not, these are just a few examples of what has been won for workers. Unions are an undeniable force for positive social change. The benefits of union representation cannot be overstated. Unions at the Grey Bruce Labour Council and in organized labour across the county believe all workers, in all sectors, across Canada, deserve good union jobs with decent pay and benefits. We won’t stop until we get there,” said Labour Council President, Kevin Smith.
Everyone can join a celebration in Port Elgin on Monday, September the 4, 2023 at 11 a.m. as the annual Labour Day Parade is held, followed by festivities at the Unifor Family Education Centre on CAW road.
