Publications

Statement of Solidarity by Unifor and the Canadian Labour Congress (CLC) for May Day 2026

OTTAWA –– On May Day, workers celebrate the historic achievements of the labour movement which, for generations, has shaped a fairer, more just Canada. As we mark May Day across the country, we also acknowledge that Canadian workers face considerable challenges. Our country’s industrial backbone is under threat, and the weight of dire economic times inevitably lands on working people…

Spring Economic Update response: Workers need real results now

OTTAWA—Today’s Spring Economic Update announced a number of positive steps to address workers’ growing economic anxieties, with major new investments in skilled trades, training, and apprenticeships. Canada’s unions are ready to work with the government to build on these positive steps with a comprehensive plan to meet the urgent challenges Canada’s workers are facing. “Workers need bold action that lowers…

Canada’s unions call for immediate action as global oil shock drives up costs for Canadians

OTTAWA – The recent events relating to global energy disruptions – from conflict involving Iran to pressures on fuel supply and strategic reserves – make one thing clear: workers in Canada are once again being asked to absorb the shock of events far beyond their control. There is no domestic supply shock in Canada. The cost of refining gasoline here…

Sustainable Jobs Partnership Council Responds to Canada’s 2026 – 2030 Sustainable Jobs Action Plan

OTTAWA, ON––The Sustainable Jobs Partnership Council acknowledges that many of the government’s priorities and those identified by key partners, are reflected in Canada’s 2026 – 2030 Sustainable Jobs Action Plan tabled on February 23, 2026. The Council remains committed to consulting with Canadians and providing advice on the creation and protection of sustainable jobs, work we believe is needed now…

Workers Must Come First in CUSMA — No Trade Deal at the Expense of Jobs, Industry, or Public Services

OTTAWA – Today, Canada’s unions met Minister Dominic LeBlanc, Minister responsible for Canada-U.S. Trade, Intergovernmental Affairs and One Canadian Economy, for a high-level Roundtable on the upcoming 2026 review of the Canada-United States Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) to deliver a clear and urgent message: workers must come first. Canadian Labour Congress President Bea Bruske was joined by leaders from several of…

Canadian Labour Congress Joins International Labour Movement in Condemning U.S. Military Aggression and Violation of Venezuela’s Sovereignty

The Canadian Labour Congress (CLC) joins the international labour movement, including the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) and the Trade Union Confederation of the Americas (TUCA), in condemning the recent U.S. military aggression and violation of Venezuela’s sovereignty. Canada’s unions firmly reject any attempt at regime change through force, coercion, or foreign interference. The future of Venezuela must be determined…

Canada’s unions call for stronger action on jobs and public services

OTTAWA—Today’s federal budget lands at a moment of deep uncertainty. Workers are facing rising prices, a growing trade crisis, and public programs stretched to the limit. With U.S. tariffs already costing Canadian jobs, this budget was a chance to show Canada is ready to stand up for workers, build resilience, protect jobs, and invest in people and public services. “When…

Budget 2025 must create jobs by investing in people and infrastructure—not cuts and corporate giveaways

OTTAWA—As workers and communities face growing uncertainty from Trump’s trade war, inflation, and a rising affordability crisis, Canada’s unions are calling on the federal government to use Budget 2025 to invest in people and infrastructure—not cuts and corporate giveaways. “Workers are doing their part to hold this country together, our elbows are up, but they’re being squeezed from every direction,”…

Canada’s unions put workers at the heart of NDP leadership race

OTTAWA –– The Canadian Labour Congress (CLC) put workers’ issues in the spotlight on Wednesday, hosting the first major public event of the NDP leadership race. The workers-first forum brought leadership candidates Avi Lewis, Heather McPherson, Rob Ashton, Tanille Johnston, and Tony McQuail together to engage directly with worker concerns. Moderated by CLC President Bea Bruske, the event gathered more…

As Parliament Returns, Canada’s Unions Say: No More Cuts, Invest in Workers

OTTAWA — With Parliament’s fall session underway and the Bank of Canada’s latest interest rate decision, the Canadian Labour Congress (CLC) is urging the federal government to stop pushing cuts and start investing in the people who keep this country running. At a press conference this morning, CLC President Bea Bruske and Senior Economist DT Cochrane warned that Canada’s economy…