Labour Day Message from NLFL President Jessica McCormick

Working people in Newfoundland and Labrador are struggling. It’s time for workers to unite against corporate greed and politicians who fail us. This Labour Day, we’re demanding a fairer system that benefits everyone, not just the wealthiest few at the top.

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.