Labour Day message from the President - 2009-09-10

“What we wish for ourselves, we desire for all” –J.S. Woodsworth

For well over a hundred years, Labour Day has been an occasion to celebrate the contribution of workers and unions to the betterment of our society. Since its earliest days, organized labour has fought and won many battles to achieve dignity, respect and a decent living for all workers, their families and their communities. We must be proud of our economic and social achievements.

An example a battle that was fought and won by unions for the betterment of all is the decision rendered on June 17th, 2009 by the Court of Queen’s Bench to give all casual workers full collective bargaining rights. This decision followed years of struggle by unions for casual workers to be treated as equals and to enjoy the same benefits as their co-workers. The NBFL applauds the provincial government for not appealing this historical decision.

On the down side, despite this important gain by unions to solidify free collective bargaining in New Brunswick, it was severely attacked when the liberal government imposed a wage freeze on public servants. These issues must be discussed at the bargaining table, not on the floor of the Legislature.

Another severe blow for all workers, their families and their communities came when the Liberal Government tabled its budget on March 17th. The government proceeded with its tax cut program that represents $257.9 million less in the government’s coffers this year alone. To account for this loss of revenue, the Graham government chose to increase fees for vehicle registration, driver’s licenses and everything in between. They also made deep cuts in essential services to the population, mostly in education, transportation and the justice system.

Another area of deep concern for the NBFL is the lack of retirement security for New Brunswickers. The economic recession confirmed what many of us had suspected for many years. Most of us simply do not, and are simply unlikely to have enough money saved to support ourselves in retirement. Fact is over 60% of Canadians don’t have a workplace pension and must rely on the Canada Pension Plan and Old Age Security.

The time has come to change a few things so all of us can avoid living our last years in poverty. Governments must establish an insurance to protect everybody’s retirement savings and workers’ pensions, just like we have for bank accounts. Governments must also invest more into proven programs like the Canada Pension Plan and Old Age Security instead of tax cuts.

Labour Day also provides us with an opportunity to renew our commitment to fight for a better New Brunswick. Unlike governments that come and go, the labour movement is here to stay. We will continue to fight for pay equity legislation, public and accessible child care, public auto insurance, first contract arbitration, anti-scab legislation and the protection of free collective bargaining.

In wishing all workers, their families and their communities a safe and happy Labour Day, I urge union members to remember the sacrifices of those who have gone before and to be proud of our heritage and union solidarity.