Value of Public Services

President's Commentary: It’s time to stop the corporate gravy train

dduffy — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 10:06:40 -0500

Rather than spending wildly on no-strings attached corporate tax cuts, Harper could have provided tax refunds to corporations after they actually created jobs; instead, job-killers like Caterpillar get to take our tax money and run.

Comprehensive speakers line up to present at the Commission on Quality Public Services and Tax Fairness in Toronto

dduffy — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 08:17:06 -0500

Presentations to the Commission on Quality Public Services and Tax Fairness range from child care and health care, children and women's rights, workers and the justice system for two days of hearings in Toronto.

Another All Together Now! Writer 4 Change letter published

dduffy — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 12:06:01 -0500

Toronto (26 Jan. 2012) - Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU/NUPGE) Region 4 Executive Board Member Chris Cormier, takes on the corporate gravy train in the following letter printed in the Jan. 13 edition of the Toronto Sun. Cormier is one of the National Union of Public and General Employees’ All Together Now! campaign's Writers 4 Change.

Licensed and Registered Practical Nurses urge Premiers to agree on key principles to protect and strengthen public Medicare

mluff — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 14:34:37 -0500

Members of the National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE) gathered in Victoria this week to discuss the ongoing Health Accord negotiations and various labour relations and professional practice issues. They were joined by representatives from the B.C Hospital Employees' Union.

LCBO agency stores starve treasury of millions in revenues, Commission hears

dduffy — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 14:29:22 -0500

“What we have in Ontario is privatization of alcohol sales by stealth,” Christianson concluded. “We’re losing out on millions of dollars that could be spent on public services.”

New Spanish Prime Minister backs Robin Hood Tax

dduffy — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 09:46:02 -0500

With Italy, France and Germany already in support, the UK is now the only centre-right Government amongst Europe's five biggest economies not to back the tax.

OPSEU developmental services workers protest service cuts for most vulnerable in London

dduffy — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 09:28:24 -0500

“The Ministry of Community and Social Services continues to ignore the chronic funding crisis in this sector,” Thomas said. “Waiting lists across the province continue to rise with no relief in sight.”

New edition of the All Together Now! Campaigner is out!

dduffy — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 16:12:27 -0500

Keep up-to-date with campaign activities and issues with your copy of the ATN Campaigner.

Cuts not only answer: group

dduffy — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 10:36:28 -0500

"It's dangerous to go down a path of looking at reducing government expenditures and dealing with the deficit, in terms of public sector's programs and services, without talking to people." - Judy Wasylycia-Leis, Public Services Foundation of Canada chairperson.

Commission on Quality Public Services and Tax Fairness launches public hearings in response to Drummond study

dduffy — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 17:35:26 -0500

"The time has arrived to study other ways of sustaining good public services in this province through a tax system that can fund programs and services."

MP Paul Dewar signs All Together Now! proclamation supporting public services and tax fairness

dduffy — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 20:29:04 -0500

"Paul knows that public services are important to building a good quality of life for Canadian families and he understands the need to ensure greater tax fairness in this country. His support for our campaign strengthens our resolve to continue the fight." - James Clancy, NUPGE President.

Study debunks myths about public sector wages - all workers falling behind

lbush — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 10:53:53 -0500

Provides fact based response to reports to the anecdotal attacks on the public sector from the Canadian Federation of Independent Businesses (CFIB) and other conservative think tanks.

National Executive Board Statement

dduffy — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 10:39:39 -0500

Statement from the National Executive Board of the National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE).

Court rules Conservatives break law by disallowing farmer vote

dduffy — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 15:49:03 -0500

"Had a meaningful consultative process been engaged to find a solution which meets the concerns of the majority, the present legal action might not have been necessary." - Justice Douglas Campbell

Guest Commentary: Tom Kent refused to believe Canadians had turned to the right

dduffy — Mon, 05 Dec 2011 08:14:49 -0500

What Kent did stand for, and speak out for, throughout his life, is the public interest. And the debate for the future is about creating a public space where the public interest can be debated, defined, and advanced.

Women 4 Change organize around public services important to life/work balance

dduffy — Fri, 02 Dec 2011 10:43:01 -0500

All Together Now! women activists to focus on public services key to achieving life/work balance.

National Union releases report on long-term care: Dignity Denied 2011

dduffy — Fri, 02 Dec 2011 10:36:32 -0500

Dignity Denied 2011 illustrates the flaws in our current system of long-term care and offers common sense solutions for positive change.

National Union retirees launch Retirees 4 Change to build All Together Now! campaign

dduffy — Fri, 02 Dec 2011 09:48:21 -0500

Retirees 4 Change will champion issues of retirement security and long-term care as part of NUPGE's All Together Now! campaign.

Wasylycia-Leis to chair review of public services and tax fairness

dduffy — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 15:27:39 -0500

“We want to hear what people have to say on a wide-range of issues …. including what needs are going unmet; are public services receiving the investment they need (and) what options other than taxes or user fees could enhance the government’s ability to raise money for public services."

OPSEU Resist Austerity campaign launched at Liberal $550-a-plate fundraiser

dduffy — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 09:30:01 -0500

"The McGuinty government can’t build a strong Ontario if they keep weakening the foundation. They need to stop the cuts before it’s too late.” - Warren (Smokey) Thomas, OPSEU President.

NUPGE stands in solidarity with UNISON in pension fight

dduffy — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 12:05:05 -0500

"Workers are being told to work longer, pay more and receive less," said James Clancy, NUPGE National President. "We stand in solidarity with each and every UNISON member in the fight for decent pensions. Enough is enough."

Health science professionals front and centre in Halifax during Health Ministers meeting

dduffy — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 09:18:45 -0500

"The first thing we should be looking at is tax fairness rather than cutting social programs like Medicare." - Elisabeth Ballerman, CHPS Co-Chair and HSAA President.

Huge cost of tax evasion revealed as campaign to tackle tax havens launches

dduffy — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 08:49:26 -0500

New research published by the Tax Justice Network shows that tax evasion costs governments around the world more than US$3.1 trillion annually.

November 25 marks the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women

dduffy — Thu, 24 Nov 2011 13:01:01 -0500

At least one out of every three women around the world has been beaten, coerced into sex or otherwise abused in her lifetime - with the abuser usually someone known to her.

November All Together Now! Campaigner is out!

dduffy — Thu, 24 Nov 2011 12:45:24 -0500

"So bailing out the banks while punishing workers is not, in fact, a recipe for prosperity." - Paul Krugman, Nobel Prize winning economist.

Health care activists gather in Halifax for meeting of health ministers

dduffy — Mon, 21 Nov 2011 11:58:22 -0500

"We need to work together to force them to put people before tax cuts and excessive corporate profits." - James Clancy, NUPGE President.

President's Commentary: Speaking truth to power - The Occupy movement has already won

dduffy — Tue, 15 Nov 2011 12:24:23 -0500

The Occupy movement is here to stay. It will morph into something else. But it’s not going away until there are serious reforms to our economy and democracy.

All Together Now! launches three new publications for tax fairness and quality public services

dduffy — Tue, 08 Nov 2011 08:53:46 -0500

All Together Now! rolls out three new, fact-filled pieces in the continuing fight for income equality.

October sees tens of thousands layed off

khawley — Sun, 06 Nov 2011 10:55:31 -0500

This October employment declined by 54,000 full time positions. October's loss pushed the unemployment rate here in Canada up 0.2 percentage points to 7.3%.

ILO says world heading for a new and deeper jobs recession, warns of more social unrest

dduffy — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 11:58:39 -0400

Respondents in half of 99 countries surveyed say they do not have confidence in their national governments.

New edition of the All Together Now! Campaigner is out

dduffy — Thu, 27 Oct 2011 09:36:54 -0400

The All Together Now! campaign continues to build a movement in support of quality public services and fighting for tax fairness.

Court orders stay of proceedings in CUPW challenge to Lisa Raitt’s arbitrator

dduffy — Mon, 24 Oct 2011 09:26:56 -0400

Postal workers mount serious legal challenge against Conservative government actions.

It’s time to kill the newest job-killing free trade deal, the Canada EU trade agreement (CETA)

dduffy — Wed, 19 Oct 2011 10:12:38 -0400

We are told that this proposed free trade deal with the EU will be good for us, those of us who make up the 99%. That’s as true as the argument that rising incomes for the wealthy will help the economy.

Civil society critics of Canada-EU trade deal to deliver trojan horse to Parliament

dduffy — Fri, 14 Oct 2011 10:45:26 -0400

Arrival of trojan horse on Parliament highlights hidden implications of the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) being pursued by the Harper government despite major public concerns.

Will your candidate stop cuts to public services, SGEU asks?

dduffy — Thu, 13 Oct 2011 11:25:04 -0400

Check out the election magazine from the Saskatchewan Government and General Employees' Union (SGEU). Before you vote, get informed.

Ontario election outcome signals time to rebuild public services

dduffy — Tue, 11 Oct 2011 10:21:32 -0400

"I will strongly reinforce our message to the premier that these sorts of cuts cannot continue without severely harming services that the people of our province have come to rely on.” - Warren (Smokey) Thomas, OPSEU President.

Increase funding for social programs, BCGEU tells government

dduffy — Tue, 11 Oct 2011 09:30:20 -0400

BCGEU urges provincial government to restore funding to much needed social programs.

October 7 - Celebrate World Day for Decent Work

dduffy — Fri, 07 Oct 2011 22:10:04 -0400

"As the trade union movement has well pointed out, it is growth and decent jobs, not austerity, which are essential to beating the crisis and putting an end to the growing inequality and poverty around the globe." - James Clancy, NUPGE National President.

President's Commentary: Time to reverse the downward spiral of income inequality

dduffy — Mon, 03 Oct 2011 09:31:14 -0400

It’s time for true political leaders in Canada to emerge and rise to the challenge of addressing inequality. And the rest of us must be more demanding of our governments to justify their policy choices – will they reduce inequality or make the problem worse?

Support grows for Robin Hood Tax

lbush — Wed, 28 Sep 2011 10:47:29 -0400

“It is time for the financial sector to make a contribution back to society,” - European Commission President José Manuel Barroso.

Report: addressing poverty will save billions

lbush — Wed, 28 Sep 2011 10:37:26 -0400

An investment in addressing poverty and income inequality in Canada would save billions in the long run.

SGEU social services campaign ad - The Phone Rings

lbush — Tue, 13 Sep 2011 10:08:08 -0400

TV campaign provides a quick glimpse into the hectic day of a social worker who struggles to meet the needs of at-risk children.

BCGEU launches BC Parks billboard and social media campaign

lbush — Tue, 06 Sep 2011 20:36:13 -0400

Campaign focuses on recent Freedom of Information documents that reveal in startling detail the impact of budget cuts.

Poll: Harper agenda out of sync with majority of Canadians

lbush — Wed, 31 Aug 2011 14:09:26 -0400

Poll finds that 30 per cent of Canadians want Parliament to focus on job creation while only nine per cent want debt reduction or tax breaks as a priority and three per cent want to see action on crime.

HST: The people of British Columbia have spoken

lbush — Tue, 30 Aug 2011 14:16:47 -0400

Walker calls on the B.C. government to hold meaningful talks on the heels of the HST referendum.

Better coverage for less: The public auto insurance advantage

mluff — Tue, 30 Aug 2011 13:24:04 -0400

Manitoba provincial P.C. candidate Gord Steeves believes private corporations should take over auto insurance. The Manitoba Government and General Employees' Union (MGEU/NUPGE) has responded with a campaign explaining why public insurance is the smart choice for Manitoba families and communities.

NUPGE's 13th Leadership School: "Strategically taking the fight to them"

dduffy — Thu, 25 Aug 2011 17:15:00 -0400

Thinking strategically during challenging times was a central theme of NUPGE's 2011 Leadership Development School.

Ottawa plans to slash provincial meat inspection

khawley — Mon, 22 Aug 2011 11:13:12 -0400

Ottawa is abandoning federal inspection of meat produced for local citizens in BC, Manitoba and Saskatchewan.

Coast guard worker relieved of duties due to public comments

dduffy — Fri, 12 Aug 2011 12:31:28 -0400

Coast guard employee relieved of his duties for publicly disagreeing with the federal government's decision to move the Marine Rescue Centres to Halifax. UPDATED

Big box childcare expansion no good for families or workers, says BCGEU

dduffy — Wed, 10 Aug 2011 10:03:33 -0400

“With corporate childcare, the profit motive comes at the expense of families and workers,” said BCGEU President Darryl Walker.

Saskatchewan labour mobilizes before election

dduffy — Tue, 09 Aug 2011 10:31:03 -0400

Activist gear up for election with province-wide training and mobilization.

OPSEU workers on frontlines of firefighting and rescue efforts in northern Ontario

dduffy — Wed, 27 Jul 2011 10:27:47 -0400

“Our members are professionals of the finest kind. They, too, are risking their health and safety so that others may find relief from the destructive effects of the blazes.” - Warren (Smokey) Thomas, OPSEU President.

NBUPPE holds first ever telephone town hall on the All Together Now! campaign

dduffy — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 14:41:33 -0400

1,500 members participate in union's first telephone town hall.

NSGEU concerned with District Health Authorities request for proposal to review admin and support services

dduffy — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 12:20:41 -0400

“Time and time again where this has been proposed, our members have demonstrated how cost-savings can be achieved by allowing them to continue to provide a specific service. Contracting-out is a false solution that will undermine public health care.” - Joan Jessome, NSGEU president.

Judicial review needed before psychiatric patient advocates transferred to CMHA

dduffy — Thu, 21 Jul 2011 13:29:39 -0400

"This is as blatant a conflict-of-interest as I’ve ever seen.” - Warren (Smokey) Thomas, OPSEU president.

BC Federation of Labour report puts corporations under the microscope

dduffy — Wed, 20 Jul 2011 10:30:29 -0400

"At no time in modern British Columbia have corporations earned so much and contributed so little to public revenue." - Jim Sinclair, president, BC Federation of Labour.

July All Together Now! newsletter highlights plans for the future

dduffy — Wed, 20 Jul 2011 09:37:15 -0400

Get the latest news and information about the All Together Now! campaign by downloading the most recent newsletter.

McGuinty begins biggest wave of layoffs in Ontario since the Mike Harris era

dduffy — Tue, 19 Jul 2011 11:08:16 -0400

“The lesson of the Mike Harris era is that cuts to public services hurt us all,” said Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU) President Warren (Smokey) Thomas.

Conference Board of Canada report shows rising income inequality in Canada

dduffy — Thu, 14 Jul 2011 14:17:51 -0400

“Hopefully this report will gain some traction with the broader corporate community and we’ll have a real conversation as to how to rectify this imbalance, before it’s too late.” says James Clancy, NUPGE national president.

Solidarity with Saskatchewan workers

dduffy — Tue, 12 Jul 2011 13:17:55 -0400

All Together Now! conference delegates support Saskatchewan workers as they bargain for decent working conditions.

NAPE campaigns against closure of Maritime Rescue Centre in St. John's

lbush — Tue, 28 Jun 2011 13:42:31 -0400

Closure will have a profoundly negative impact on the offshore search and rescue capabilities in this province – an impact that could put people’s lives in danger.

All Together Now! campaign marks its first anniversary

dduffy — Fri, 24 Jun 2011 09:02:46 -0400

"The fact that tax fairness is even being debated in the public forum is due in large part to the hard work of our members." - James Clancy, president, NUPGE. UPDATED

Harper government provoking a confrontation with labour movement

dduffy — Wed, 15 Jun 2011 20:01:45 -0400

“We’re witnessing a concerted effort by the new Harper majority government to weaken the rights of workers and the influence of their unions.”

NSGEU: School cuts will hurt

dduffy — Mon, 13 Jun 2011 10:35:22 -0400

"Continuing the spiral downward, the loss will in turn affect the overall economies in our struggling rural communities." - Joan Jessome, NSGEU president.

Tax fairness and public services on the agenda at PEIUPSE regional meetings

dduffy — Tue, 07 Jun 2011 13:24:38 -0400

On the heels of a federal budget which gives more tax breaks to corporations but signals cuts to the public service, PEIUPSE launches regional meetings on the Value of Public Services.

Recycled federal budget won’t help struggling families

dduffy — Mon, 06 Jun 2011 16:30:04 -0400

“A majority of Canadians want the Harper government to cancel its plan for more corporate tax cuts and instead invest the money in the quality public services families need,” said James Clancy, NUPGE national president.

MGEU child and youth workers stand up for under-funded services

dduffy — Mon, 06 Jun 2011 12:39:23 -0400

Child and youth workers rally for improved working conditions in sector.

'Tax Freedom Day' is an old, misleading gimmick, says All Together Now! campaign

dduffy — Mon, 06 Jun 2011 10:49:52 -0400

The concept of a tax "freedom" day has always been a corporate sham to undermine the value of the public sector and public services.

Workers at All Care Home Support Ltd. choose NAPE

dduffy — Sun, 05 Jun 2011 17:42:37 -0400

"We are pleased to have been selected by the employees for All Care Home Support as their union." - Carol Furlong, NAPE president.

BCGEU members rally against critical Sheriff staffing levels

dduffy — Wed, 01 Jun 2011 10:08:11 -0400

Deputy Sheriffs around the province are having their hours cut dramatically by the provincial government, which will cause more problems keeping courts running, says the British Columbia Government and Service Employees' Union (BCGEU/NUPGE).

BC Community Social Service workers vote to strike

dduffy — Mon, 30 May 2011 15:16:12 -0400

“This strike vote comes at a time of deepening crisis in community social services,” says James Cavalluzzo, bargaining association chair.

OPSEU presses government to "Put Kids First"

dduffy — Mon, 30 May 2011 10:46:24 -0400

On June 1, in communities throughout Ontario, wear a sticker to Put Kids First

May newsletter for All Together Now! Campaign

mluff — Tue, 24 May 2011 16:15:04 -0400

Get the latest news and information about the All Together Now! campaign by downloading the most recent newsletter.

Arizona State corrections finds little to no savings with private prisons

lbush — Tue, 24 May 2011 10:18:16 -0400

Points to a problem with private jails ‘cherry-picking’ healthy and easy prisoners and leaving state facilities with more difficult and costly inmates.

BCGEU raises issues in meeting with Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General

dduffy — Thu, 19 May 2011 11:29:13 -0400

"It would appear that the government has heard our concerns and that we are making some progress. However, there is a long way to go yet," said Darryl Walker, BCGEU president.

Seventh anniversary of Christy Clark’s creation of Community Living BC - Unfulfilled promises leave vulnerable families

dduffy — Wed, 18 May 2011 14:43:05 -0400

BC CLAG is reaching out again to stress that families are still waiting and will continue to urge Premier Clark and Minister Bloy to honour the promises made seven years ago.

NUPGE delegates big contributors at CLC Convention 2011

dduffy — Mon, 16 May 2011 12:44:16 -0400

"As we heard from several well respected speakers this week, it is critical that we continue to educate, organize and mobilize our activists and fight for tax fairness and quality public services." - James Clancy, NUPGE president.

OPSEU launches public service sector blog

dduffy — Mon, 16 May 2011 08:12:10 -0400

The truth starts at PS: Let's Talk.

May 2 to 9 is Children's Mental Health week in Ontario

dduffy — Wed, 04 May 2011 15:25:17 -0400

Ontarians urged to "Take a Stand" for youth mental health.

PEIUPSE demands province set standard education for RCWs

dduffy — Tue, 03 May 2011 14:43:14 -0400

"The call for standardized RCW education is now more important than ever," asserts PEIUPSE President Shelley Ward. "Patient safety and care depends on successful collaboration between health care professionals."

OPSEU members at Pathstone Mental Health head to conciliation

dduffy — Mon, 02 May 2011 12:01:35 -0400

"Children, youth and families deserve mental health services when they need them" says Leisa Burberry, bargaining team chair, "and we're the professionals that want to deliver them."

MGEU campaign for defibrillators a success: Legislation announced

dduffy — Sun, 01 May 2011 09:09:00 -0400

“I’m proud that this new legislation will support more tools that can be used to save lives,” said Oswald. “I want to express our appreciation and gratitude to Manitoba paramedics and the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Manitoba for their leadership and advocacy.”

A Modern Post: Powered by People - Why we should care about CUPW bargaining

dduffy — Fri, 29 Apr 2011 10:18:41 -0400

The real question now is whether or not Canada Post is up to the job to be the innovator the country needs. There is a massive opportunity for CEO Deepak Chopra to make a transformative shift in our postal system. Now is the perfect time for Canada Post to open itself to the future, to invest and expand.

Join April 28th online forum on tax fairness, public services and the election

lbush — Tue, 26 Apr 2011 15:39:58 -0400

Economist David Macdonald and Ottawa Citizen columnist will be taking your questions about party policies on taxes and public services. Join us at http://alltogethernow.nupge.ca/webcast-apr28

Two new posters in the Whose Canada? series

dduffy — Tue, 26 Apr 2011 13:56:36 -0400

"I believe if Canadians are presented with clear choices in this election, they'll choose the Canada that you and I believe in." - James Clancy, President, NUPGE

MGEU Town Hall for tax fairness: April 27

dduffy — Tue, 26 Apr 2011 12:50:51 -0400

“With almost half of all MGEU members working directly for the province of Manitoba, it’s important for members to talk about public services and how these services are impacted by taxation. This is a chance for our members to address these issues and get informed,” said Lois Wales, MGEU president.

HSAA hosts telephone All Candidates Meeting on April 26

dduffy — Tue, 26 Apr 2011 11:42:33 -0400

"This is a unique opportunity for our membership to learn a bit more about the federal party's platforms, especially with respect to fair taxation," said Scott Pattison, HSAA Communications Officer.

All Together Now! campaign newsletter: No one says no to Tamara

dduffy — Mon, 25 Apr 2011 10:41:41 -0400

“Not one person I’ve spoken to about this campaign has said these cutbacks haven’t hurt them personally or someone they are close to. I’ve always had fire in my belly to make a difference, but this campaign has increased it more.” - Tamara Weber, Champion 4 Change.

Whose Canada?

dduffy — Thu, 21 Apr 2011 09:50:14 -0400

Whose Canada? That's the question we want Canadians to think about in this election.

Striking members at Metro Housing Authority vote to accept first contract

dduffy — Wed, 20 Apr 2011 09:59:33 -0400

"The vote to accept this process brings to an end a two year struggle to reach a first collective agreement," says Joan Jessome, NSGEU president. “We are all very proud of this new local and their determination to achieve a fair first contract.”

OPSEU to Premier: Establish a commission on tax fairness & quality public services

dduffy — Tue, 19 Apr 2011 13:40:08 -0400

"OPSEU recognizes that the public wants a leader who understands the value of quality public services and is prepared to talk straight about the need to pay for them through a fair tax system. We hope you recognize this as well." - OPSEU President Warren (Smokey) Thomas.

PEI's 'vacancy management' practice hurts public services

dduffy — Tue, 19 Apr 2011 12:15:12 -0400

"The bottom line is that the Ghiz government has no concrete plan to ensure that Islanders receive continually improving services. If anything, services for Islanders are in jeopardy." - Shelley Ward, PEIUPSE president.

Prime Minister won’t answer your questions – but we will!

lbush — Mon, 18 Apr 2011 17:11:44 -0400

All Together Now! conducting town hall meetings and forums across the country to discuss questions of tax fairness, public services and the people who deliver them. Updated!

NSGEU members at the Metropolitan Housing Authority on strike for wage parity

dduffy — Mon, 18 Apr 2011 11:41:58 -0400

"Families will suffer if the 33 members are not there to provide them service." - Metro Regional Housing Authority tenant.

Agree with poll on corporate tax cuts and fighter jets, we don't want them

dduffy — Mon, 11 Apr 2011 15:45:17 -0400

Spending $6 billion on a tax cut to big corporations and up to $30 billion on fighter jets are simply not on the priority list of most Canadians.

Corporate tax cuts not delivering on job creation

dduffy — Mon, 11 Apr 2011 14:43:41 -0400

There’s more fresh evidence that the Harper government's drive for ever-lower corporate tax rates has not produced the job creation payoff that the Conservatives have been promising.

Public services take a hit in Nova Scotia budget

dduffy — Sun, 10 Apr 2011 12:43:13 -0400

"This downsizing fails to address the devastating impact of failing to fill vacancies for our members and the vital services they provide," says NSGEU/NUPGE

Tell Dwight Duncan to "seal the deal": fund developmental services now!

dduffy — Thu, 07 Apr 2011 13:40:22 -0400

"The employers and the Ministry both need to realize that this sector is at a cross roads, one where all stakeholders can agree to work together to solve the systemic issues they face or where the service will continue to slip backwards and fail one of societies most vulnerable groups," says OPSEU/NUPGE.

Sudden, radical cut to x-ray services will ultimately cost Kamloops

dduffy — Thu, 07 Apr 2011 09:12:19 -0400

“Outpatient x-rays are a source of much-needed revenue for the hospital. And they want to give them away to the for-profit clinics? That’s wrong.”

Making the connection: Labour rights, good jobs, tax fairness and quality public services

dduffy — Tue, 05 Apr 2011 18:18:05 -0400

The pretense for the attacks is that state governments are broke and radical measures are required to eliminate budget deficits. This is a false argument.

Standing in solidarity with US public sector workers: British Columbians take to the streets

dduffy — Wed, 30 Mar 2011 13:52:01 -0400

This show of solidarity will be held on Saturday, April 2 at 2 pm at the Peace Arch Park on the Canada-US border.

Koch Industries registers to lobby Alberta government

dduffy — Mon, 28 Mar 2011 16:28:21 -0400

According to Global Compass Group, the lobby firm hired by Koch Industries to represent its interests, it will focus on issues ranging from taxation policy, energy and resource and economic development.

Saskatchewan budget abandons vulnerable children and families

dduffy — Fri, 25 Mar 2011 12:08:57 -0400

"We can’t keep cutting social workers, highways workers, educators, and health care workers without putting public health and safety at risk,” says SGEU President Bob Bymoen.

Budget 2011: Harper government out of touch; can’t be trusted to help struggling families

dduffy — Tue, 22 Mar 2011 10:32:01 -0400

"Tax fairness has been flipped upside down in this country,” said Clancy. “Instead of billion dollar give-aways to corporations, the government should invest the money in the public services that ensure a decent quality of life for all Canadians.”

Friends of Medicare rally for a public inquiry- March 26

dduffy — Mon, 21 Mar 2011 15:32:05 -0400

“A full public inquiry would be just the ticket to restore public confidence in our system," said David Eggen, Executive Director of Friends of Medicare.

NUPGE concerned about fate of federal funds for education

khawley — Wed, 16 Mar 2011 09:22:04 -0400

Our nation and our economy were built on the skills and knowledge gained through a public system based on accessibility, affordability, quality and accountability and funded through the Canada Social Transfer (CST)

Race to make federal housing strategy a reality

dduffy — Mon, 14 Mar 2011 18:21:34 -0400

"With three million Canadians living in housing insecurity, the federal government can no longer afford to hide its head in the sand and wish this problem away.”- James Clancy, national president, National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE)

OPSEU rallies in London on March 9 for mental health services

dduffy — Mon, 07 Mar 2011 13:12:58 -0500

“For the past two and a half years the government has been working on a 10-year strategy for mental health,” says Kim McDowell, President of OPSEU Local 152 (RMHC). “While they have been talking about improving the system, the reality on the ground has been one of program closures and layoffs.”

Privatizing NB Liquor - A sobering second thought

dblaikie — Sun, 30 Jan 2011 12:15:00 -0500

'The facts clearly show that privatization of liquor stores in New Brunswick is just bad public policy.'

OPSEU out to kill corporate tax cuts with humour

dblaikie — Sun, 23 Jan 2011 10:40:00 -0500

Satirical video called People for Corporate Tax Cuts makes the point that public employees and public programs must not lavish unnecessary billions on corporations.

Developmental Services: Worker Appreciation Day

dblaikie — Wed, 19 Jan 2011 14:31:01 -0500

Fifth annual celebration of the important work of people who care for and support individuals with developmental disabilities.

Alternatives urged to deal with N.B. budget crisis

dblaikie — Tue, 18 Jan 2011 17:45:00 -0500

'Our collective challenge today is to develop a sense of co-operation amid very significant challenges.'

NSGEU fighting back against school board cuts

dblaikie — Mon, 17 Jan 2011 17:35:00 -0500

'Why inflict unnecessary anxiety and hardship on parents, teachers, staff and administrators who are already struggling to maintain present programs and services?'

OPSEU will appeal to finance committee for fairness

dblaikie — Wed, 12 Jan 2011 17:49:00 -0500

Warren (Smokey) Thomas will present a brief on behalf of 125,000 OPSEU members across Ontario.

Canada's finance ministers put off pension reform

dblaikie — Tue, 21 Dec 2010 07:51:34 -0500

CPP changes derailed as federal finance minister puts forward a limited voluntary private-sector pension option designed for small businesses and the self-employed.

Consultants getting billions from Harper Tories

dblaikie — Mon, 06 Dec 2010 17:31:00 -0500

'They're talking about the need to reduce the public service ...at the same time costs are going through the roof.'

HSAA members urged to rally Dec. 4 at legislature

dblaikie — Thu, 02 Dec 2010 17:32:00 -0500

'We demand that our public health care system be protected and not secretly dismantled by the Stelmach government.'

BCGEU supports recommendation to extend AirCare

dblaikie — Mon, 29 Nov 2010 17:30:00 -0500

'We urge the government of British Columbia to act swiftly on this unanimous recommendation.' - Darryl Walker.

Albertans face deficits while oil industry prospers

dblaikie — Sun, 28 Nov 2010 07:01:00 -0500

'Without a change of course by their government, they can expect more of the same - generosity for the oil patch, discipline for citizens.' - Parkland Institute.

Alberta Tories fire MLA for health care criticism

dblaikie — Tue, 23 Nov 2010 17:44:00 -0500

Episode underscores HSAA position in demanding action now to deal with provincial ER crisis.

OPSEU video takes apart McGuinty wage freeze

dblaikie — Mon, 22 Nov 2010 17:55:00 -0500

The impact on public employees will stretch far beyond the two-year freeze proposed by the province – all for the benefit of already-wealthy corporations.

Let's defend Medicare - it's National Medicare Week

dblaikie — Wed, 17 Nov 2010 08:13:42 -0500

Take two minutes to e-mail Prime Minister Stephen Harper demanding that the Canada Health Act be enforced.

Two health care rallies are planned in Edmonton

dblaikie — Tue, 16 Nov 2010 17:30:00 -0500

"Our Tax Dollars - Our Health Centre ... Open the Doors, Turn On All the Lights!'

Now not the time to cut public spending, says CCPA

dblaikie — Thu, 11 Nov 2010 17:49:00 -0500

'There will be a major human and economic cost if deficits are eliminated before a real recovery has been achieved.' - Andrew Jackson.

Broken B.C. legal aid system needs major overhaul

dblaikie — Wed, 10 Nov 2010 17:45:00 -0500

'A rights-based system makes sense, because it removes politics from the justice system.' - Darryl Walker.

OPSEU's 'Invest in Ontario' campaign is mobilizing

dblaikie — Thu, 04 Nov 2010 18:41:00 -0400

'We're a 130,000 member union and we are also working together with other unions to make sure our message is heard.'

NSGEU launches province-wide television campaign

dblaikie — Mon, 01 Nov 2010 18:29:50 -0400

'Polling has told us the public values the public services they receive.' - Joan Jessome.

Families, workers, service providers and advocates work together to address BC community living crisis

mluff — Wed, 27 Oct 2010 20:17:38 -0400

A broad and diverse group of almost 200 self-advocates, families, workers and other key stakeholders met in Vancouver earlier this week to strategize around working together to address the current crisis in the community living sector.

OPSEU website calculates real cost of wage freeze

dblaikie — Mon, 18 Oct 2010 09:00:00 -0400

Eye-opening website lets employees see the annual cumulative losses a public sector freeze will mean to their personal purchasing power.

Friends of Medicare campaign launched in Alberta

dblaikie — Wed, 13 Oct 2010 18:35:00 -0400

Legal opinion commissioned by Alberta Federation of Labour says proposed changes are "not consistent with a democratic society."

NBUPPE cautions new premier against service cuts

dblaikie — Wed, 13 Oct 2010 18:31:00 -0400

'There are ways the government can save money within the government system but it's not by cutting public services.' - Tom Mann.

Private B.C. clinics violating the Canada Health Act

dblaikie — Tue, 28 Sep 2010 18:20:00 -0400

B.C. Health Coalition report says 'explosion' of for-profit clinics jeopardizing equality and fairness of the health care system.

HSAA brief on regulation of pharmacy technicians

dblaikie — Sun, 26 Sep 2010 13:01:00 -0400

'The proposed process is unnecessarily heavy handed.' - Elisabeth Ballermann.

Cutting public sector jobs would hurt N.B. citizens

dblaikie — Wed, 22 Sep 2010 18:30:00 -0400

NBUPPE says New Brunswick politicians will damage essential services if they try to finance election promises by cutting public sector jobs.

OPSEU issues report on mental health cuts in London

dblaikie — Tue, 21 Sep 2010 18:40:00 -0400

Bed counts will drop to nearly half over the next four years despite a doubling of patients with dementia in the coming years, union says.

Winnipeg Paramedics demand more ambulances

dblaikie — Tue, 21 Sep 2010 18:30:00 -0400

'Right now lives are being put at risk. It’s that simple.' - Chris Broughton, MGEU Local 911.

Major Alberta health report says 'Put People First'

dblaikie — Fri, 17 Sep 2010 08:34:06 -0400

Released after 12 months of hearings, workshops and submissions from Alberta groups and citizens.

CHC demands leadership on public Pharmacare plan

dblaikie — Mon, 13 Sep 2010 13:00:00 -0400

Canadian Health Coalition says ‘affordability’ no longer an excuse for inaction.

Calgary rally Friday against private health care

dblaikie — Wed, 08 Sep 2010 18:28:00 -0400

Labour organizations gathering at 10 a.m. at Health Resource Centre.

Public health care to fund private surgeries in Regina

dblaikie — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 18:31:00 -0400

Saskatchewan Party government eroding public health care system, say critics.

Negotiations break off in Burin-Marystown strike

dblaikie — Wed, 25 Aug 2010 18:35:00 -0400

NAPE accuses employer of discrimination against women while managers are paid up to $40 an hour.

B.C. campaign tries to stop more for-profit clinics

dblaikie — Sun, 22 Aug 2010 13:02:00 -0400

Municipalities across the province are being urged to support a resolution by Victoria and New Westminster at UBCM meeting in September.

Another reminder of the value of Canadian Medicare

dblaikie — Sun, 22 Aug 2010 13:01:00 -0400

Many Americans going without health care as private insurance companies continue to jack up premiums to pay for exorbitant CEO salaries and lobbyists.

Manitoba planning new facility for women at risk

dblaikie — Thu, 12 Aug 2010 13:00:00 -0400

Multi-bed shelter for women battling addictions, homelessness or other safety issues.

P.E.I. announces list of regulated child care centres

dblaikie — Tue, 10 Aug 2010 18:30:00 -0400

New regulated child care system goes into effect across the province in September.

Tories won't target federal workers to pay for deficit

dblaikie — Mon, 09 Aug 2010 18:30:00 -0400

John Baird says Harper Conservatives will make constraint in spending growth 'the centrepiece' of their approach to tackling record federal budget shortfalls.

BCGEU backs call to stop group home closures

dblaikie — Wed, 04 Aug 2010 18:29:00 -0400

'We want to see the B.C. Liberal government and its agencies develop a multi-year plan.' - Darryl Walker.

NUPGE joins TJN call for broader trade consultations

dblaikie — Tue, 03 Aug 2010 18:45:00 -0400

Canada's first minister urged not to endorse Canada-European trade agreement without undertaking extensive consultations with citizens.

OPSEU slams closure of truck inspection stations

dblaikie — Tue, 03 Aug 2010 18:40:00 -0400

Brings back memories of Mike Harris cuts causing 'flying wheels' and 'dangerous rigs'.

HSAA backs 'Our Water Is Not For Sale' campaign

dblaikie — Thu, 29 Jul 2010 18:30:00 -0400

Citizens are being urged to sign an open letter to Alberta Environment Minister Rob Renner.

OPSEU takes message directly to Ontario premier

dblaikie — Tue, 27 Jul 2010 18:36:00 -0400

'I can say with confidence that McGuinty knows the broad strokes of where OPSEU members are at on the big issues.' - Warren (Smokey) Thomas.

Ontario denies plan to sell Crown corporations

dblaikie — Mon, 28 Jun 2010 18:30:00 -0400

'Are we looking at smaller things? Possibly, but no decision’s been made.'

OPSEU fights to save Ontario Crown corporations

dblaikie — Mon, 31 May 2010 18:30:00 -0400

'Our message on this is clear: selling off any of Ontario’s assets, including the LCBO, is foolish.'

Calgary surgeries jeopardized by privatization

lbush — Sun, 02 May 2010 21:37:11 -0400

“The promises of shorter wait times, of innovation, and of cost savings have just evaporated. In the end, I'm prepared to bet that Alberta tax payers will be paying a whole lot more than we would have if we had never travelled down this slippery slope,” Elisabeth Ballermann.

Trade Justice Network releases secret draft copy of Canada-European Union trade agreement

lbush — Mon, 19 Apr 2010 18:45:00 -0400

Proposed language would open Canada's telecommunications sector to full foreign ownership, restrict municipal procurement policies and make banking and financial regulation much more difficult.

Canadian lessons from U.S. health care 'reform'

lbush — Sun, 11 Apr 2010 13:00:00 -0400

NUPGE president James Clancy says the acrimonious U.S.health care debate offers a welcome reminder that Canada’s national Medicare program is a triumph of both values and economics.

N.B. gov't cancels sale of NB Hydro to Hydro Quebec

dblaikie — Sun, 28 Mar 2010 12:00:00 -0400

Decision follows massive 'people power' protest by citizens across New Brunswick. Updated.

Job cuts will put public safety at risk, says SGEU

dblaikie — Thu, 25 Mar 2010 18:31:00 -0400

'There is absolutely no justification for government slashing jobs in the public service when the net result will be a loss in vital services.' - Bob Bymoen.

Oak Bay council opposes sale of seniors' lodge

dblaikie — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 18:30:01 -0400

BCGEU working with supporters of long-established facility to prevent privatization.

Alberta plans to centralize Cytology Lab Services

dblaikie — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 18:29:00 -0400

HSAA launches online petition to change Alberta government's mind.

Manitoba budget falls short for public sector workers

dblaikie — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 08:54:35 -0400

Government employees bear brunt of deficit fight, including call for two-year wage freeze.

SaskTel new target of privatization in Saskatchewan

dblaikie — Mon, 22 Mar 2010 18:30:00 -0400

'This is yet another example of our current government piecing away our Crown corporations, regardless of whether or not they are profitable.'

Mass protest in Fredericton against NB Power sale

dblaikie — Sun, 21 Mar 2010 13:49:11 -0400

By far the largest demonstration yet against the sale of NB Power assets to Hydro Quebec.

Public sector unions in Canada and Europe alarmed by proposed trade deal

lbush — Mon, 11 Jan 2010 10:24:22 -0500

Canadian public sector unions along with the European Federation of Public Service Unions release study arguing that the deal is fundamentally flawed.

NUPGE stands in solidarity with museum workers

lbush — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 09:31:00 -0500

Rally and concert held to back striking workers of the Canadian Museum of Civilization and the Canadian War Museum. NUPGE has made a significant contribution to worker's hardship fund.

BCIT cuts limit public access to training programs

lbush — Thu, 10 Dec 2009 22:21:07 -0500

Underfunding and no-deficit policy at BC Institute of Technology means students and staff have fewer options.

Another B.C. direct patient care service to close

lbush — Wed, 09 Dec 2009 12:55:16 -0500

"The Work Ability Centre is renowned for the quality of their programming. If anything, it should be expanded, not closed down." Darryl Walker, president BCGEU/NUPGE

Report says Canadian position in Copenhagen symptom of flawed business model in energy sector

lbush — Tue, 08 Dec 2009 17:33:13 -0500

Paper from Alberta’s Parkland Institute and the CCPA see a business model based on maximizing profit and share value creates significant environmental, social, economic, and political problems for Canada.

Fraser Health Authority flouts Supreme Court ruling

dblaikie — Sun, 22 Nov 2009 12:01:00 -0500

Ignores restrictions imposed by Canada's top court when sections of Bill 29 were struck down as unconstitutional.

Canadians speak on 'The Next Economy' for Canada

dblaikie — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 18:46:00 -0500

NUPGE publishes the first of three reports on ideas that emerged from a series of 26 town hall meetings across the country to assess the way forward from the global economic collapse.

Another Tory government targets rural post offices

dblaikie — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 17:31:30 -0500

Postal union circulating petition to draw attention to unpublicized campaign by Harper Conservatives.

Privatization again threatens Canada's rural post offices

dblaikie — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 14:41:26 -0500

Canada Post review awakens old fears in hundreds of small rural communities.

Coalition warns against private clinics in Sask.

dblaikie — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 17:28:00 -0500

Private delivery of services should not even be considered, says Canadian Health Coalition.

Manitoba will proclaim Nov. 6 “Community Social Service Workers Appreciation Day”

lbush — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 14:13:01 -0400

On November 6th the Government of Manitoba and MGEU will recognize the importance of highlighting the work of Manitoba's Community Social Service Workers and to acknowledge their vital contribution to our communities.

Ontario's $1-billion eHealth consulting scandal

dblaikie — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 18:31:00 -0400

The private consultants behind the eHealth spending scandal weren’t able to contain themselves from pinching the public purse for every last dime." - Warren (Smokey) Thomas.

Poll finds Albertans do not accept health care cuts

dblaikie — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 18:27:00 -0400

804 people surveyed across the province in mid-September by NRG Research Group.

MADD Canada strongly supports public liquor sales

dblaikie — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 18:30:00 -0400

'Replacing the provincial liquor board system with a privatized system of retail alcohol sales will increase alcohol-related problems and carry substantial human, social and economic costs.'

N.B. reverses decision on education cuts

lbush — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 11:26:05 -0400

The decision proved to be unpopular among parents and teachers and sparked a flurry of complaints to the ministry.

Saskatchewan Crown corporations are 'endangered'

dblaikie — Thu, 21 May 2009 18:29:00 -0400

'This government thinks profits instead of people and this is toxic to our vibrant Crowns.'' - Wendy Sol, Save Our Saskatchewan Crowns (SOS).

B.C.'s plan to cut public service by up to 57%

dblaikie — Wed, 13 May 2009 18:30:00 -0400

What will re-elected Campbell government do with proposal to radically dismantle public services?

Ontario liquor workers taking strike vote May 20-22

dblaikie — Sun, 10 May 2009 12:55:00 -0400

Abuse of casual workers is the key issue. The LCBO makes more than $200,000 a year per worker ($1.6 billion) yet casual workers earn less than $20,800 a year.

Big B.C. highways bonuses despite poor safety record

dblaikie — Wed, 06 May 2009 18:29:00 -0400

Private British Columbia highway contractors rewarded by Liberal government of Premier Gordon Campbell despite repeatedly failing safety inspections.

Wine store franchises bad deal for Saskatchewan

dblaikie — Wed, 06 May 2009 18:28:00 -0400

'Opening these new specialty wine stores is just a way of turning liquor sales over to private interests.' - SGEU president Bob Bymoen.

Private Victoria liquor stores charge up to 35% more

dblaikie — Tue, 05 May 2009 18:33:00 -0400

BCGEU survey finds 93% of all private store prices higher than government-run stores. None were lower.

Private booze retailers overcharging B.C. customers

dblaikie — Mon, 04 May 2009 18:30:00 -0400

BCGEU responds to bogus suggestion by Vancouver Province writer on NDP and beer prices.

N.B. urged to crack down on double dipping

dblaikie — Sun, 03 May 2009 13:01:00 -0400

'Why not leave the front line service positions alone and explain the million dollars spent on consultants?' - NBUPPE.

Privatized B.C. highways need better oversight

dblaikie — Thu, 30 Apr 2009 18:30:00 -0400

'Ministry of Transportation needs to take back control of costs and operational outcomes to determine value for money.'

Senate report says Canada lags in care of seniors

dblaikie — Wed, 22 Apr 2009 18:29:00 -0400

'Sandwich generation' needs help coping simultaneously with children and aging parents.'

Big lie exposed – tax cuts hurt our living standard

dblaikie — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 18:33:00 -0400

'Our public services are an unbeatable deal.... we get back much more than the amount we pay in taxes.'

Canada-wide blitz to keep health care public

dblaikie — Tue, 14 Apr 2009 18:32:00 -0400

Canadian Health Coalition challenges CMA president Dr. Robert Ouellet to stop misleading Canadians about private, for-profit health care.

SGEU warns against privatization and P3s

dblaikie — Tue, 14 Apr 2009 18:31:01 -0400

'We will be discussing the value of public services, especially during a recession when our services are required more than ever.' - SGEU president Bob Bymoen.

B.C. highway contractors operating unsafe vehicles

dblaikie — Tue, 14 Apr 2009 18:29:30 -0400

'The Campbell government is to blame for this troubling situation because it's failed to properly enforce standards.' - BCGEU president Darryl Walker

April 18 rallies planned to save Ontario hospitals

dblaikie — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 18:14:00 -0400

'80% of hospitals are sinking into debt while the equivalent of 5,000 full-time jobs are expected to be eliminated this year alone.'

Public service workers safeguard Saskatchewan

dblaikie — Mon, 06 Apr 2009 18:30:00 -0400

Province-wide SGEU campaign features firefighters, highways workers, social workers and corrections workers.

Public services hit hard by new Ontario budget

dblaikie — Mon, 30 Mar 2009 18:27:00 -0400

'A loss of that magnitude is akin to losing three steel mill plants in Hamilton.' - OPSEU president Warren (Smokey) Thomas. [Updated with detailed critique.]

NSGEU slams for-profit operation of Telecare

dblaikie — Sun, 29 Mar 2009 12:00:00 -0400

'Wouldn’t the profits made by McKesson Canada be better used in the public system?' - Joan Jessome.

OPSEU withdraws from nursing home committee

dblaikie — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 07:30:15 -0400

'The absence of a staffing standard has already compromised quality care in the drive to maximize profits.'

Pushing in different directions - economic incoherence from Canada's governments

dblaikie — Mon, 16 Mar 2009 18:17:00 -0400

Why are several Canadian provinces cutting back at a time when the economy needs stimulus across the board, asks NUPGE's Larry Brown.

N.B. unions warn of 700 public sector job cuts

dblaikie — Sun, 15 Mar 2009 14:00:00 -0400

NBUPPE says New Brunswickers will feel the impact in lost services.

OPSEU joins health coalition postcard campaign

dblaikie — Sun, 15 Mar 2009 13:14:00 -0400

Message to Premier Dalton McGuinty: Please fund our hospitals adequately to resolve their deficits and stop the cuts.

Saskatchewan to keep liquor stores in public hands

dblaikie — Wed, 04 Mar 2009 17:02:14 -0500

'We made a commitment before the last election that we would not be privatizing the liquor stores.' - Dan D'Autremont.

Recovery homes are an unregulated racket in B.C

dblaikie — Wed, 04 Mar 2009 17:00:07 -0500

Investigation indicates widespread abuses by private operators who are benefiting from millions in public funding.

Just say no to the expansion of for-profit child care

bhildahl — Tue, 03 Mar 2009 15:02:26 -0500

Beware of child care property development/leaseback schemes, proposals to expand for-profit child care and pressure to reduce quality standards.

BCGEU shocked at prospect of 30% public sector cut

Wed, 25 Feb 2009 17:53:17 -0500

Musings by premier are a big setback for efforts to rebuild public sector and deal with recruitment and retention following damage caused by Liberal cuts in 2001 and 2004.

New Brunswick Union campaigns against cuts

Tue, 24 Feb 2009 18:44:01 -0500

'The government has indicated that they are going to cut up to 25% cent of the public service.' - Tom Mann.

BCGEU will fight hard to save public sector jobs

Sat, 21 Feb 2009 15:00:33 -0500

'Be reassured though that your collective agreements contain some very strong employment security provisions that the government is legally bound to respect.' - Darryl Walker.

BCGEU says budget puts services under pressure

Wed, 18 Feb 2009 08:58:24 -0500

'Line staff are all too aware of wasteful spending, especially the use of outside contractors.' - Darryl Walker.

National Union mourns deaths in Australian disaster and applauds heroic efforts of public sector workers

lbush — Thu, 12 Feb 2009 10:50:23 -0500

The role that public sector workers played in fighting the fire - and saving lives - has not received the recognition that it deserves. Public sector workers have been at the forefront of responding to the disaster.

BC unions and civil society organizations say 'The time is now' for a poverty reduction plan

lbush — Tue, 10 Feb 2009 08:16:25 -0500

National Union components, the Health Sciences Association of BC and the British Columbia Government and Service Employees' Union, are among the more than 200 organizations to sign onto an open letter calling for a commitment to a comprehensive poverty reduction plan.

Net neutrality coalition fights for innovation and free speech

lbush — Mon, 09 Feb 2009 10:38:33 -0500

CRTC decision on Internet throttling pits 'innovation and free speech versus monopoly'. Canadians encouraged to get involved in the debate over Canada's open Internet and 'Net Neutrality' -- before a vital February 16 deadline.

Ballots cast but Ontario Colleges move to prevent vote from being counted

lbush — Sun, 08 Feb 2009 08:44:19 -0500

Colleges have asked Ontario Labour Relations Board to deny application for certification outright - want the ballot boxes to remain sealed and they don’t want the votes to be counted. Union calls on Minister to act.

National Union joins call for improvements to Employment Insurance

lbush — Fri, 06 Feb 2009 12:01:27 -0500

As the number of unemployed grows the National Union is demanding the federal government move quickly to fix the Employment Insurance program.

Effects of Harper's misguided plan for child care becoming glaringly clear

lbush — Thu, 05 Feb 2009 19:44:30 -0500

Conservatives' plans in child care leading to shrinking number of child care spaces and they have chosen to ignore the crisis in the recent federal budget.

B.C. premier signals major service cuts and job losses

Tue, 03 Feb 2009 07:28:41 -0500

BCGEU president Darryl Walker concerned by potential impact on frontline services.

How Canada can beat tough times

Wed, 21 Jan 2009 13:08:10 -0500

'In tough times it is important that our governments show leadership and make smart policy choices that are in our long term interests,' say James Clancy and Peter Olfert.

Challenging Ottawa to invest in frontline services

Wed, 21 Jan 2009 06:00:10 -0500

'Frontline public sector workers were in Ottawa recently to urge the federal government to make public services and social programs a priority in the Jan. 27 federal budget.'

Privatization linked to million Soviet deaths

Fri, 16 Jan 2009 10:40:54 -0500

British study examines the 'economic shock' following the collapse of the former Soviet Union and the horrific human toll that accompanied mass privatization.

Media Advisory: the National Union (NUPGE)

Thu, 15 Jan 2009 07:15:00 -0500

Frontline public sector workers are urging Canada's first ministers to make funding for public services and social programs a priority in the federal economic stimulus package.

Invest stimulus in families, say frontline workers

Wed, 14 Jan 2009 15:58:42 -0500

Frontline public sector workers are urging Canada's first ministers to propose a stimulus package that supports families by investing in public services.

Nanos poll on Canada's federal budget

Tue, 13 Jan 2009 15:58:00 -0500

Canadians want greater investment in public services for families. A new poll indicates citizens will back stimulus measures that support — not cut — government services.

Public sector the key to economic recovery

Wed, 07 Jan 2009 19:00:00 -0500

'Now is definitely not the time to cut back on public services or public sector wages.' - Warren (Smokey) Thomas

Private contract abandoned at Kincardine hospital

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 19:00:00 -0500

OPSEU says fight to restore public sector out-patient physio services will continue.

MGEU fights liquor privatization in Manitoba

Mon, 05 Jan 2009 19:00:00 -0500

MGEU debunks claim that alcohol is just another commodity like blue jeans.

Ambrose intervenes, orders Ottawa bus vote

Thu, 01 Jan 2009 19:00:00 -0500

Sides with mayor who refused to bargain seriously with striking drivers.

Dangers of P3s key issue at upcoming PEIUPSE convention

Mon, 03 Nov 2008 19:00:00 -0500

'The problem is that the costs are still there. Taxpayers pay regardless of how the financing is arranged.'

Union of Public Sector Employees help launch P3 website

Mon, 27 Oct 2008 20:00:00 -0400

With P3s - The only winner is the private sector contractor.

SGEU launches new anti-privatization campaign

Thu, 23 Oct 2008 20:00:00 -0400

The Saskatchewan Government and General Employees' Union (SGEU/NUPGE) has launched a new campaign to promote the value of public services.

PSI affiliates urged to mark Public Service Day on June 23

Mon, 16 Jun 2008 00:00:00 -0400

Designated by the United Nations General Assembly in 2002

B.C. auditor general red flags costly privatization scheme

Tue, 29 Apr 2008 00:00:00 -0400

'We urgently need an immediate moratorium on any further privatization deals.' - George Heyman, BCGEU

PublicValues.ca tells the story of privatization in Canada

kcarruthers — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 00:00:00 -0400

NUPGE among supporters of new website

Private clinic got Royal Ottawa Hospital staff lists and e-mail

Wed, 19 Dec 2007 19:00:00 -0500

OPSEU asks hard questions about firm charging $7,500 for treatment not covered by OHIP

New B.C. agency could mean more privatization and layoffs

Mon, 17 Dec 2007 19:00:00 -0500

BCGEU says Campbell Liberals failing to consult in spirit of historic Supreme Court of Canada decision

MGEU lauds housing merger announcement in Manitoba

Sat, 15 Dec 2007 19:00:00 -0500

Good news for MHA employees merging with MHRC

Ontario resources ministry fails to enforce conservation laws

Sat, 15 Dec 2007 19:00:00 -0500

OPSEU says report echoes concerns it has expressed on many occasions

Ontario will pay $3.5 billion over 25 years for one P3 hospital

Thu, 13 Dec 2007 19:00:00 -0500

Outrageous private profits and secrecy condemned by Ontario Health Coalition

VON workers in Hamilton getting a lump of coal for holidays

Wed, 12 Dec 2007 19:00:00 -0500

'Decision won't stand without a challenge.' - OPSEU president Warren (Smokey) Thomas

BCGEU asks whether highways are properly maintained

Wed, 05 Dec 2007 19:00:00 -0500

Information kit helps British Columbia drivers evaluate road maintenance

P.E.I. union warns province against public-private partnerships

Tue, 04 Dec 2007 19:00:00 -0500

'When something looks too good to be true - it usually is.' - Shelley Ward, PEIUPSE

Ontario throne speech light on specifics for public services

Sat, 01 Dec 2007 19:00:00 -0500

35,000 long-term beds but no mention of additional staff

Data 'catastrophe' in U.K. warning for B.C. government

Thu, 29 Nov 2007 19:00:00 -0500

Billion-dollar British IT privatization gamble runs into trouble

Safety a top priority for public liquor stores in Saskatchewan

Tue, 23 Oct 2007 20:00:00 -0400

Business community lobbying aggressively for privatization in Nov. 7 election campaign

B.C. sits on surplus as it cuts services for veterans and seniors

Wed, 17 Oct 2007 20:00:00 -0400

'The province has a huge surplus and it makes no sense.'

Report condemns environmental law enforcement in B.C.

admin — Tue, 16 Oct 2007 00:00:00 -0400

West Coast Environmental Law, assisted by the British Columbia Government and Service Employees' Union, has released a damning report on the provincial environment. It documents a dramatic reduction in enforcement and compliance under the Campbell Liberal government.

Newfoundland must act or risk losing skilled trades people

Wed, 03 Oct 2007 20:00:00 -0400

'Leaving for higher wages elsewhere.' - Carol Furlong

NUPGE working session for income maintenance employees

Mon, 01 Oct 2007 20:00:00 -0400

Exploring solutions to excessive caseloads and workplace stress

NAPE calls on parties to outline plans for home care workers

Wed, 26 Sep 2007 20:00:00 -0400

'Successive governments have undervalued the services they provide.' - Carol Furlong

Only strong public services can meet tough global challenges

Tue, 25 Sep 2007 20:00:00 -0400

The 20 million-strong international public service trade union federation holds its centennial congress in Vienna. PSI delegates meet in congress every five years.

Ontario Liberals and Tories differ on corner store alcohol sales

Tue, 25 Sep 2007 20:00:00 -0400

Dalton McGuinty would keep LCBO system as it is; John Tory is open to privatization

Freestanding meat plants should be provincially inspected

Sat, 22 Sep 2007 20:00:00 -0400

OPSEU makes food safety an issue in the Oct. 10 Ontario election campaign

John Tory would bleed staff from public health system

Wed, 19 Sep 2007 20:00:00 -0400

Why is John Tory so eager to push Ontario into more U.S.-style health care delivery?

OPSEU wary of Harris-style cuts advocated by John Tory

Thu, 30 Aug 2007 20:00:00 -0400

'It strikes fear in the heart of the workforce and the public that consume government services.' - Warren (Smokey) Thomas

Harper Tories privatize nine operating federal buildings

Sun, 26 Aug 2007 20:00:00 -0400

25-year deal puts taxpayers on the hook for untold billions in undefined future rent and maintenance costs

CMA delegates narrowly defeat motion calling for user fees

Wed, 22 Aug 2007 20:00:00 -0400

Members divided on privatization ideology of incoming CMA president Brian Day of Vancouver.

CMA should use evidence-based criteria to set health policy

Thu, 16 Aug 2007 20:00:00 -0400

Group of organizations says doctors should evaluate health care in the same way they assess patients.

Health care and the common good

jclancy — Tue, 14 Aug 2007 20:00:00 -0400

(Aug 15, 2007) -- 'The CMA is undermining the most fundamental premises of our national Medicare system – health care is not a commodity that should be bought or sold. It is a common good and needs to be treated and respected in this manner.'

Long wait times for physiotherapy and occupational therapy

Thu, 09 Aug 2007 20:00:00 -0400

Report by the Canadian Physiotherapy Association (CPA) says long wait times for physiotherapy treatment or occupational therapy are affecting vulnerable patients.

Cut wait times by adding health care workers, says NSGEU

Thu, 02 Aug 2007 20:00:00 -0400

Recruitment and retention are 'huge issues' in all health care fields in which the NSGEU represents workers – and privatization is not the answer

Privatizing health cards and driver

khawley — Tue, 13 Mar 2007 15:04:11 -0400

'There is no place for the profit motive when it comes to guaranteeing the security of citizens.' - Leah Casselman

Privatization by stealth for patients at Bowmanville hospital

Wed, 26 Jul 2006 15:54:06 -0400

User fees could be next, OPSEU warns

How will Stephen Harper treat federal public sector workers?

Mon, 23 Jan 2006 19:00:00 -0500

Canada's next prime minister is the only federal leader who refused to sign The Workers' Bill of Rights