Canada’s largest labour organization unveiled its federal election platform Monday, calling on political parties to address aggressive U.S. trade threats, corporate price gouging, and the ongoing health-care crisis affecting millions of working Canadians.
The Canadian Labour Congress (CLC), representing more than three million workers nationwide, released its Workers Together platform in St. John’s, N.L., a day after the federal election was called for April 28. The platform demands bold policy actions, including mitigating U.S. tariff threats, capping prices on essential goods, and implementing universal public Pharmacare.
“This isn’t just another election—it’s a crucial choice about who will support Canadian workers in these turbulent times,” said CLC President Bea Bruske. She emphasized the urgency for the incoming government to immediately tackle economic uncertainty heightened by aggressive American trade tactics.
Jessica McCormick, president of the Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of Labour, echoed Bruske’s concerns, highlighting the affordability crisis facing Canadian workers.
“Workers and their families need and deserve elected officials who will prioritize their needs—not the interests of the corporate elite,” McCormick said.
Among the proposals, Canada’s unions called for the construction of one million affordable homes to address the housing crisis and restructuring corporate taxes to adequately fund public services.
Bruske also criticized Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, questioning his ability to handle international negotiations crucial for Canadian economic stability. “Pierre Poilievre has never worked on a factory floor, never run a business, never held corporate interests accountable. How can he negotiate with Trump when he has no experience of getting things done for Canadians?” said Bruske.
The Workers Together platform also highlights the need to strengthen Employment Insurance benefits, secure pensions, and protect workers against rising automation and artificial intelligence, underscoring the labour movement’s commitment to economic resilience and job security.
“The next government must be ready to take bold action from day one,” Bruske added.
The Canadian Labour Congress represents national and international unions, provincial and territorial federations, and local labour councils, collectively advocating for workers across the country.
