Happy Labour Day weekend 2024!

Happy Labour Day weekend, brought to you by unions! I’m so proud for the chance to address you today –  the scientists, engineers, healthcare professionals, IT specialists, and so many others who work tirelessly to serve Canadians.

First and foremost, thank you. Your dedication, expertise, and resilience, especially in these challenging times, are nothing short of inspirational.

As your union President, I want you to know: I see you, I hear you, and we are fighting for you every single day.

I know the challenges you're facing. The outsourcing crisis that undervalues your expertise and wastes taxpayer money. The ill-conceived return-to-office mandate that ignores the future of work and the quality of life you deserve. The nickel and diming we saw at the table during the most recent round of bargaining. 

But here's what I want you to remember this Labour Day: You are not alone in these struggles. The power of our union lies in our solidarity. Together, we are a force to be reckoned with.

When the government funnels billions into outsourcing, we push back – because we know you can deliver better, more cost-effective services.

When short-sighted return-to-office mandates threaten to drive dedicated professionals like you out of public service, we stand firm – because we know that flexible, supportive working conditions mean you can better serve Canadians.

And when we're at the bargaining table, we push for good wages that keep up with rising costs of living, fight for policies that treat you with respect and accountability, and demand benefits that match your expertise and dedication.

This is the power of our union. This is why we're stronger together. 

We're also calling on you to stand with us. Talk to your colleagues about the importance of our union. Engage with your MP about these critical issues. Remind them that a strong public service, supported by strong unions, means a strong Canada.

As we prepare for the crucial 2025 bargaining round, your engagement will be more important than ever. Stay informed, participate in union activities, and be ready to show your solidarity. Together, we can achieve landmark improvements in your working conditions and the quality of public services.

Remember, every victory in labour rights, from the weekend to workplace safety standards, came from workers standing together. Today, we stand on the shoulders of those who came before us, and we're fighting for the future of work.