2024 Labour Day Speech

September 2, 2024

With Labour Day quickly approaching, now is the perfect time for all workers to come together and stand up against corporate greed and the unacceptable actions of the Provincial and Federal Government. There are vital tasks that workers and their families are confronting every day that require a speedy response.

Government must begin to realize that the pursuit of corporate profits does not drive the economy. Instead, workers’ pay cheques are the driving force that boost the economy. The better the pay, the more people can save and spend, therefore boosting the economy. The Northumberland Labour Council advocates for policy and legislative improvements that benefit all workers. Unions are leading the way by negotiating for better wages and benefits. However, unions are facing stark opposition from the Provincial Conservative Government. Some examples are sick leave and anti-scab legislation. The Federal government has implemented paid sick leave for all Federal workers, but the Doug Ford Government is reluctant to implement paid sick leave for workers in Ontario. Why? The Federal Government has anti-scab legislation which keeps non-unionized workers from being hired to cross picket lines to do union jobs. Again, the Doug Ford Government is opposed to putting into place similar legislation to protect union workers. Why? What is the Ford Government gaining by not making these changes? One thing is for certain, the Ford Government isn’t interested in protecting the average worker.

Another major concern facing workers is the widening gap between minimum wage and a living wage. Many workers are earning minimum wage or lower which causes severe financial strain. Many workers are having difficulties affording essentials such as housing, food, and healthcare. This economic inconsistency leads to financial insecurity, which impedes overall productivity and economic growth. To solve this, better wages and stronger labour principles are critical. Governments must acknowledge a living wage is an important protection against Corporate Greed. Governments must adjust the minimum wage, factoring in inflation and the genuine cost of living.

All workers are impacted as essential items, such as food, household products, personal care products, clothing, etc., are becoming increasingly unaffordable due to rising prices. Reducing product quantities and raising prices are just two examples that are evident in corporate greed today. Also, housing has become a luxury as workers are finding it more difficult to afford the rising rent and mortgage costs, and for those wanting to buy their first house, nearly impossible. Workers are quickly learning that their pay cheques are not stretching as far as they used to. And many are living pay cheque to pay cheque.

As the gap between the wealthy and the impoverished grows, some politicians are trying to divide us even more so they can shield the wealthy. Politicians are hurting workers by supporting tax cuts for corporations while reducing fundamental programs and services such as healthcare and pensions. Essential programs and services such as the Canada Pension Plan, public healthcare, public education and other public services are now being threatened. Governments are undermining the rights of unions through back-to-work legislation and through negative changes to the Employment Insurance Act and changes to pensions. This is why it is imperative that all workers stand in solidarity to hold governments accountable and ensure that the rights of workers are highlighted.

Government investment in healthcare, education, social services, affordable housing, and fair wages are essential for our community and will develop a healthier economy. Union jobs are the backbone in many of our communities. Northumberland Labour Council will continue to advocate for better worker rights.

Solidarity

Dan Tobin

President

Northumberland Labour Council