Canada’s largest private sector union is pressing Newfoundland and Labrador’s newly elected Progressive Conservative government to take immediate steps to protect workers facing threats in the fishery, forestry and energy sectors.
Unifor made the call following the election of Premier-elect Tony Wakeham on Oct. 14. The union represents workers across multiple industries in the province.
“The mandate for this new government right now needs to be taking immediate action to protect jobs and support Newfoundland and Labrador workers,” said Unifor National President Lana Payne. “Premier-elect Tony Wakeham should expect to hear from Unifor as our union works with all levels of government to build robust industrial strategies, and as we continue our fight to strengthen public health care and mental health supports.”
Union conducted pre-election outreach
Unifor members spent weeks before the election contacting other members to discuss concerns and encourage voter turnout. The outreach revealed common workplace issues across the province, according to the union.
“We heard many common concerns from workers on the doorsteps and over the phone that this government will need to tackle,” said Unifor Atlantic Regional Director Jennifer Murray. “There is an urgent need to protect the inshore fishery from unjust foreign intrusions. Workers also want to see investment being made in sectors like forestry that provide family-supporting jobs, and this new PC government needs to have a plan to support all workers in the province impacted by tariffs and global market instability.”
Tariffs pose threat to key sectors
The union has issued statements about tariff threats facing Canadian industries, including sectors vital to Newfoundland and Labrador’s economy. These include fishery, forestry and energy operations.
According to Unifor, the statements outline the union’s response to U.S. tariffs and its work with governments and industries on economic policy.
Unifor represents 320,000 workers across Canada in various private sector industries.