We are thinking of you. We stand with you. 

We extend our deepest gratitude to the frontline workers—firefighters, emergency responders, public service workers, and so many others—who are working around the clock, often in dangerous conditions, to protect lives and communities. 

We owe them not just our thanks, but our full support—today and every day. 

That support must include fair treatment for all firefighters. Forest firefighters are often left out of the protections and benefits that others receive. They are not included in the Public Safety Occupation provisions of the federal Income Tax Act, which means they don’t get the same pension rights or recognition under the National Occupational Classification. 

Despite their invaluable service, forest and wildland firefighters do not receive the recognition, protections, and retirement benefits that their urban and structural counterparts do. This built-in inequality must be addressed so that these essential workers receive the recognition and protection they rightfully deserve. 

There also needs to be a focus on recruitment and retention, something  Canada’s unions have advocated for a long time.  

These fires are not isolated incidents. They are part of a larger pattern that can no longer be ignored. Climate change is real, and its impacts are accelerating. The time for half-measures and delay is over. 

Workers must have a seat at the table when it comes to shaping the future of our country. The climate crisis is a workers’ issue, a public health issue, an economic issue—and it demands bold, coordinated action. 

To all the workers and families on the frontlines of this crisis, we stand with you in solidarity. We stand for justice, equality, and recognition of the critical work you do—every day, and in every part of this country. 

The post Statement from Bea Bruske, President of the Canadian Labour Congress, on the Wildfires Affecting Communities Across Canada appeared first on Canadian Labour Congress.

Protecting the EV supply chains in Canada is about investing in Canada’s capacity to transition to a low-carbon economy with good, unionized jobs that support families—not a backdoor for China to flood our market with its cars.  

The consultations announced today should result in quick and decisive action to protect from unfair Chinese competition and create Canadian jobs in domestic EV supply chains.  

Both the United States and Europe have introduced higher import tariffs on Chinese-made EVs. Similar action from Canada is essential to ensure that the highly integrated automotive sector in Canada, U.S. and Mexico will continue to grow with good, unionized jobs that strengthen our economy and ensure we meet our climate ambitions. 

The post Protecting Canada’s EV Opportunities  appeared first on Canadian Labour Congress.

As we mark Earth Day on April 22, workers are on the frontline of extreme weather events, including drought, floods, forest fires, and more. They know firsthand the dire consequences facing their communities if our governments don’t address climate change. 

“Canada’s net-zero future must be built with good, unionized jobs,” says Bea Bruske, President of the Canadian Labour Congress. “Through the Sustainable Jobs Partnership Council and through real, tripartite action, we can ensure that sustainable jobs are good union jobs with decent pay and benefits to support families, communities, and the country as a whole.”  

“Through dedicated, worker-focused supports, as well as union-led, not for profit training and worker-centered regional economic development, change for the better is possible – but only if we act now,” said Larry Rousseau, Executive Vice-President of the CLC.  

“Workers are taking note of leaders who support their futures – and those who don’t. The Poilievre Conservatives fought tooth and nail against the Sustainable Jobs Act, proving yet again that they are no friend to workers,” said Bruske.

The post Earth Day 2024: Canada’s move to net-zero must have workers at its core appeared first on Canadian Labour Congress.

“Thanks to the hard work of union members across Canada, the federal government is making sustainable jobs and a shift to net zero a top priority. Workers have the expertise to help decarbonize our economy, and this bill will guarantee unions and workers seats at the table on the Sustainable Jobs Partnership Council,” said Bea Bruske, President of the Canadian Labour Congress. “We now call on Senators to pass this legislation quickly, so we can continue this important work while keeping workers and communities at the heart of Canada’s climate plans.”

This major milestone would not have been reached without the continued advocacy of workers, and the dedication of New Democrats and the federal government. Bill C-50 will ensure that sustainable jobs are good union jobs, with good pay and benefits. It will create new sustainable jobs, help shift energy workers into sustainable jobs, and decarbonize good jobs to make them sustainable.

Workers and unions were incredibly disappointed that Conservatives chose to fight the inclusion of worker voices in shaping a sustainable future built on good, unionized, net-zero jobs. The best outcomes for workers will come from ensuring the Partnership Council is up and running as soon as possible, so workers can contribute to delivering on the investments, training, and programs to create, support and protect sustainable jobs across Canada.  

The post Sustainable Jobs Act passes in House of Commons appeared first on Canadian Labour Congress.

The latest report, Putting workers and communities at the centre of Canada’s net-zero energy economy, funded by Natural Resources Canada, outlines actions and investments that governments should make to support workers in the shift to a sustainable economy.

“Canada stands at a crossroads. People across the country and around the globe are experiencing the impacts of climate change in their work and their everyday lives to a degree that’s unprecedented,” said Bea Bruske, President of the CLC. “Our economy must adapt in order to prevent the worst impacts of climate change, but it must also be positioned to take advantage of the massive industrial and economic opportunities that come with a global shift to net-zero. To accomplish that, we must ensure workers have a seat at the decision-making table.”

“Countries around the world are racing to secure their place in a net-zero future,” said Chris Severson-Baker, Executive Director of the Pembina Institute. “At the same time, a people-centered energy transition and industrial decarbonization strategies have the potential to create a host of co-benefits that can improve the everyday lives of Canadians — boosting the economy, creating new livelihoods, improving health outcomes, and creating a better future for equity-deserving groups.”

“This report rightly puts skills development and training at the heart of a blueprint needed to achieve Canada’s climate targets and carve out new sources of competitive advantage in a net-zero world,” said Pedro Barata, Executive Director of the Future Skills Centre. “The recommendations point to the need for place-based and sectoral approaches that bring together stakeholders – including workers – to co-design and implement solutions to the challenges facing Canadian workers, starting now, in the places where they will be felt first and most acutely.”

The report shows that 2 million people will be working in the Canadian clean energy sector by 2050, that investing in workers and regional economies can increase GDP by a cumulative $55 billion between 2040 and 2050, and supports for accredited, non-profit training can drive down unemployment and increase wages for workers in resource sectors.

“We absolutely cannot afford to let these opportunities pass Canada by,” added Bruske.

Canada can either be a leader with a plan to train workers, decarbonize industries, support economic diversification, and ensure our workers are leaders in a net-zero global economy, or miss this golden opportunity.

“A framework for international and national just transitions is needed. It must address equity, social, economic, and environmental dimensions, aligning with the ILO guidelines adopted by governments at the ILC in June on Just Transition,” said Diana Junquera Curiel, Acting Director of the Just Transition Centre. “Labour rights, social dialogue, and social protection are being pushed by unions into the climate discussions, emphasizing the need for international justice for a Just Transition and workers at the table in Just Transition policies.”

Decision-makers across the federal government, provinces, territories, the Sustainable Jobs Partnership Council and Sustainable Jobs Secretariat will find in this report recommendations to support workers with skills and training, income security, engagement and labour rights, as well as economic-focused actions to optimize and leverage the energy transition for the good of workers and their communities. The sustainable blueprint for Canada will provide a roadmap to ensure workers can see a path forward for their future.

ABOUT:

The Canadian Labour Congress is the largest labour organization in Canada, bringing together dozens of national and international unions, provincial and territorial federations of labour and community-based labour councils to represent more than 3 million workers across the country.

The Pembina Institute is a charitable thinktank working to solve today’s greatest energy challenges — reducing the harmful impacts of fossil fuels while supporting the transition to an energy system that is clean, safe and sustains a high quality of life.

The Future Skills Centre (FSC) is a forward-thinking centre for research and collaboration dedicated to driving innovation in skills development so that everyone in Canada can be prepared for the future of work. The FSC is funded by the Government of Canada’s Future Skills Program.

The Just Transition Centre was established in 2016 by the ITUC and partners. The Centre brings together workers and their unions, businesses and governments in social dialogue and stakeholder engagement with communities and civil society to ensure that labour has a seat at the table when planning for a Just Transition to a low-carbon world.

ENGLISH VERSION

The full English report can be accessed here.

FRENCH VERSION

The full French report can be accessed here.

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The post Canada’s unions release roadmap for workers to see a path forward in Canada’s changing economy appeared first on Canadian Labour Congress.

Today Canada faces a once-in-generation economic, environmental, and political challenge, and we won’t get a second chance to get this right. 

Our neighbour and biggest trading partner is aggressively adapting their workforces and industries. Countries around the world are accelerating their transition to a zero-carbon economy. If we fail to act now, our industries will lose out and our workers will be left behind. Our livelihoods and communities will be put at risk. 

We are facing serious economic and political challenges, for sure. But today’s challenges can become tomorrow’s opportunity if we can show our special ability as Canadians to work together. That’s why Canada’s unions are actively engaging governments and businesses. Some issues make strange bedfellows. But we must rise to meet these challenges, and that means workers, businesses and governments must come together and act for the common good.  

The government has introduced positive new legislation that provides a roadmap for Canada’s transition to a low-carbon economy. The Sustainable Jobs Act looks to address climate change and build a low-carbon economy through creating and supporting good, sustainable, union jobs in successful, low-emission businesses. The kinds of family-supporting, middle-class jobs that allow us to build the healthy and thriving communities we want to live in. With some tweaks, the Sustainable Jobs Act will make a real difference for millions of workers and thousands of businesses.  

But make no mistake, we certainly will never build the communities we want to live in with precarious, low-wage jobs. Governments can’t just hand out billions in blank cheques to private companies and then hope good things happen. We must always make sure communities benefit when we invest public dollars in private companies.  

Workers stand on the frontlines of climate change, including fighting wildfires, restoring downed power lines, and rebuilding our communities after extreme weather hits. Workers are also front and centre dealing with the impacts of this economic transition. Like the energy workers worried about the future, the farm workers battling droughts, or the construction workers who keep on building through sweltering heatwaves.  

As the democratic representatives of workers, the labour movement must have meaningful seats at the decision-making table. Workers and the businesses that employ them must be at the table with governments if we are serious about crafting solutions. There should certainly be no opposition to the principle that, as Canada shifts to a low-carbon economy, no workers or industries are left out of this conversation.  

This might be a global challenge, but our solutions must be local. Building a low-carbon economy will mean new opportunities across the country, in every sector and every region. Clean energy manufacturing, critical minerals, non-emitting and renewable energy, electric vehicles, and the list goes on. Unions are ready to work with businesses, so they are well-positioned to succeed in tomorrow’s economy.  

In 2015, Prime Minister Stephen Harper said moving to a low-carbon economy would “require a transformation in our energy sectors.” Now, workers are looking to MPs from all parties to work with us to quickly pass a strengthened Sustainable Jobs Act. Then we can get down to the hard work of creating good jobs and successful businesses in a sustainable economy.  

Hundreds of thousands of jobs and billions of dollars in economic activity hang in the balance.  

Bea Bruske is President of the Canadian Labour Congress. Follow her on Twitter @PresidentCLC 

The post Government, workers and businesses must come together to win the low-carbon economic transition appeared first on Canadian Labour Congress.

“Workers from coast-to-coast are ready to get to work and contribute to building a strong, sustainable economy. This report provides a comprehensive framework for government action to support workers in this critical undertaking,” said Bea Bruske, President of the CLC. “Canada’s unions expect, and will continue to press for, swift government action to provide the tools and opportunities needed to make a sustainable future a reality.”  

The Canadian Sustainable Jobs Act, introduced in June, presents an important opportunity to protect workers, ensure new low-carbon jobs are high quality, and give workers a seat at the table as decisions are made about their futures. 

However, steps must be taken to ensure the legislation meets its potential. The report provides specific recommendations to strengthen the Act, including improving guiding principles, equipping the Sustainable Jobs Partnership Council with the tools needed to meaningfully shape Canada’s sustainable jobs strategy, and establishing an effective Secretariat to enhance policy integration, intergovernmental coordination, and worker support. Adopting these recommendations would ensure that the legislation supports workers and communities with a pathway to good, sustainable jobs. 

Bruske emphasized: “Workers are the linchpin in facilitating the shift toward a sustainable economy. But this shift will be impossible if we don’t prioritize fair and safe work, decent wages, and workers’ rights.” She added: “Through collaboration with workers, unions, and businesses, Canada can be a global leader in good, sustainable jobs and the fight against climate change.” 

The full report can be accessed here.  

The second installment in the Sustainable Jobs Blueprint Series is set to be released shortly and will focus on sustainable jobs policies that support workers and their communities. 

This project was funded by Natural Resources Canada. 

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The post Canada’s unions release sustainable jobs blueprint appeared first on Canadian Labour Congress.

“Canada’s unions are looking to MPs from all parties to come together behind swift action to make sure help is there for people facing high prices, stretched budgets and a weakening economy,” urged Bruske. “Parliament must also act urgently on the dual challenges of addressing climate change while creating sustainable jobs.”

Bruske said Canada’s unions expect MPs to make it a top priority to strengthen the Sustainable Jobs Act, C-50, and get the bill passed before the winter break.

“The Americans’ Inflation Reduction Act has challenged the world to act, and many countries are responding. The Sustainable Jobs Act provides a roadmap for Canada’s governments, businesses, and unions to work together and make sure our workers aren’t left behind in the global transition to a low-carbon economy,” warned Bruske. “Climate change is real and getting worse. MPs must make it job one this fall to take smart action that creates the kind of good, sustainable, union jobs that are the cornerstone to building thriving communities.”

Bruske said that Parliament must also act to make things a bit easier for those struggling the most through urgent action to create more affordable homes, make sure EI is there for people when they need it, and pass a new pharmacare act so Canada can implement public, universal pharmacare.

“Building affordable homes and implementing publicly funded and publicly delivered pharmacare are tangible ways we can make sure no one is left with the impossible choice of choosing whether to pay for rent, groceries, or their kid’s medicine. MPs must deliver on pharmacare this fall,” declared Bruske. “3 in 5 unemployed people don’t even qualify for benefits. With unemployment rising and more people being thrown out of work, it’s critical we finally reform EI so help is there for workers when they need it.”

Bruske added that it is also critical the government introduces, and MPs pass, anti-scab legislation this fall.

“We have seen years of record corporate profits while workers’ pay lagged far behind. Workers are rightly demanding more balanced workplaces,” said Bruske. “If we ban the use of scabs once and for all, we can take a real step towards greater labour peace, avoiding work stoppages and building a more balanced economy.” 

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During a year when many communities are witnessing a worsening of the already-devastating impacts of climate change, the need for swift and widespread climate action remains urgent. “Climate change is the defining crisis of our time and one that will include everyone from government officials to energy company executives, to front line workers and their unions,” says Bea Bruske, President of the Canadian Labour Congress. “Workers in communities across Canada are leading the transition to powering the country with sustainable energy. They expect the government to take ambitious action to move with them.” 

Canada’s unions are pleased that the vision document includes a plan to include workers and their unions in a meaningful way throughout the process. As Canada transitions to a net-zero economy there is immense opportunity to create and protect good, unionized jobs, with pathways into these jobs for women, Indigenous and racialized workers, and other equity-seeking groups. 

“These workers are the ones who will make our transition possible; we won’t meet our climate goals without them,” says Bruske. “If Canada is going to achieve net-zero by 2030, the workers making that happen need good, union jobs.” 

Canada’s unions will continue to push for investments in sustainable energy and climate action, including supports for workers whose jobs are affected by climate change and provisions like new jobs, comprehensive training initiatives, upskilling and reskilling, skills recognition, Employment Insurance (EI), mental health support, family support, pension bridging, relocation assistance, and other essential measures. 

“Today’s announcement is a critical step in the climate action process. We remain committed to working with all stakeholders to ensure that workers are included in the creation of an equitable and sustainable future for all,” says Bruske. “We know that communities with good, union jobs embedded within them are stable and resilient. We are focused on making sure the transition puts as many of these jobs in as many communities as possible.” 

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The post Workers Eager to Contribute to National Electricity Grid Plan appeared first on Canadian Labour Congress.

Bill C-50, just tabled, provides a roadmap toward making Canada’s economy competitive for years to come.

“On a global scale, clean energy investment has surpassed spending on oil and gas for the first time.” From raging wildfires to extreme storms, each day brings stark reminders of the impacts of climate change and the urgent need for climate action. Climate change is an undeniable reality, and its effects are worsening. Regardless of who might be in power a decade from now, Canada must act today to fulfill its role in the global fight against climate change while securing our position in the low-carbon economy of the future.

Last year, the United States took a significant leap forward with the passage of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), placing immense pressure on Canada to keep pace or risk falling behind. The IRA outlined the Biden administration’s plan to slash emissions, invest in clean energy and provide direct supports to communities.

The Canadian government’s response began to take shape when it committed to invest $80 billion over the next decade and signed notable deals with Volkswagen and Stellantis. With the introduction of the Sustainable Jobs Act, C-50, Canada is taking another important step forward for our workers and businesses. This legislation provides a roadmap for making Canada’s economy competitive for years to come.

On a global scale, clean energy investment has surpassed spending on oil and gas for the first time, signalling the most substantial transformation of our economy in recent memory. With fierce global competition to attract new investments, Canada faces the potential loss of up to $600 billion over the next 15 years if we fail to get this right.

Our competitive advantage lies in Canada’s businesses, workers and government working together to ensure that new industrial investments entice companies to do business in Canada and that this new economic activity brings tangible benefits to our people and communities.

At the heart of this new Act is a Sustainable Jobs Partnership Council, bringing workers and business together to advise the government on the best ways to create sustainable jobs in this new economy. We believe that at the core of Canada’s approach must be the fundamental principle that workers deserve a meaningful seat at the table and a voice in decision-making around Canada’s industrial strategy. We must provide workers with a pathway to the good jobs of tomorrow while giving the labour movement a real say in any new government body making decisions about workers’ futures.

Multinational corporations possess influential platforms and a strong lobby. They prioritize their investors’ interests. But Canada’s labour movement represents everyday people and brings forward the unique experiences and insights of Canada’s workers.

The decisions we make now will determine whether we build thriving communities powered by good, family-supporting union jobs with decent pay, pensions and benefits. Providing better training and apprenticeship support will mean people can keep their jobs as their industry moves to new low-carbon technologies or learn the skills they need to take on new jobs. We also have a once-in-a-generation opening to create new opportunities for historically excluded people, including women, Indigenous and racialized workers, workers with disabilities and other equity-seeking groups.

By bringing labour, industry and government together, the Sustainable Jobs Act provides a new approach that can position Canada at the forefront of the global low-carbon economy. Working together, we can create good union jobs while we help businesses shift to cleaner technologies, move to lower-emissions manufacturing jobs, and make Canada a leading supplier of the critical minerals needed for new low-carbon technologies.

This is how we can build the kinds of flourishing communities Canadians want for their children and grandchildren.

Bea Bruske is President of the Canadian Labour Congress. Follow her on Twitter @PresidentCLC

The post Bruske: How Canada can create sustainable jobs as we shift to a low-carbon future appeared first on Canadian Labour Congress.

As communities across the country and around the world grapple with the impacts of climate change, it is crucial that we work together to drive down emissions and hit our climate targets. 

“We cannot afford to ignore the looming threat of the climate crisis. Global economies are shifting to address climate change, which means jobs and work will also evolve. Workers and unions must be at the decision-making table to make sure no one is left behind,” said Bea Bruske, President of the Canadian Labour Congress. 

Bruske added, “Make no mistake; when governments are investing in sustainable jobs, labour rights are a must. Social protection is essential. Workers are at the forefront of Canada’s changing climate, and they deserve to bring their concerns, skills, and expertise to the table. Now is the time to ensure that all workers – especially those who have been historically marginalized – have their voices heard.” 

Canada’s unions welcome investments to date, such as increases to the Union Training and Innovation Program under the Canada Sustainable Jobs Plan and tax credits designed to spur investment in emissions-reducing projects and technologies while incentivizing the creation of good-paying, sustainable jobs. The federal government’s commitment to tie labour requirements to clean energy tax credits in Budget 2023, including prevailing wage levels and apprenticeship training opportunities, is particularly welcome.  

However, this is just a start. Moving towards a sustainable economy requires ambitious, targeted investments to meet climate targets while protecting and creating good, unionized work. It necessitates meaningful collaboration and social dialogue between organized labour, governments, and businesses to provide good-paying, secure jobs – and there must be pathways into these jobs for women, Indigenous and racialized workers, and other equity-seeking groups. 

“More action is needed to ensure jobs in the sustainable economy provide fair compensation and benefits, health and safety protections, democratic representation in the workplace, and opportunities for equity,” said Larry Rousseau, Executive Vice-President of the CLC. “Concrete action – and investments – are vital for our collective wellbeing. For our planet and our communities, we must act now.” 

Add your voice to call for a Just Transition that puts sustainable, healthy, and resilient communities at the heart of climate action.

The post Earth Day 2023: Canada’s unions call on governments to put workers and communities first appeared first on Canadian Labour Congress.

OTTAWA–Canada’s unions are marking Labour Day by celebrating the hard-fought gains of the labour movement and bringing workers, their families and allies together in solidarity, united in their commitment to the important work ahead.

“The collective power of workers and our long fight for fairness has delivered the forty-hour work week, pensions, weekends and so much more. Unions have paved a path to the middle class for millions of Canadians,” said Bea Bruske, President of the Canadian Labour Congress. “Today, more and more people are standing up, joining unions and demanding better. Coming together to fight for good jobs with fair wages, better benefits and improved working conditions.”

With workers struggling to afford necessities, as inflation skyrockets and wages lag well behind, Canada is seeing growing momentum behind workers fighting back against those trying to make workers pay for today’s affordability crisis.

“We keep hearing Bay St. CEOs calling for austerity and warning about rising wages. But this corporate scaremongering ignores the fact that while corporations are doing better than ever, wages aren’t keeping up and family budgets are breaking under the weight of runaway costs for housing, food, transportation and so many other daily essentials,” explained Bruske. “What we have seen is growing ‘greedflation’ from profitable companies, using the crisis to jack up prices, rake in record profits and drive-up inflation.”

Bruske added that Canada’s unions will also continue to fight for government action to fix our public health crisis and address health worker shortages; help families struggling to survive the affordability crisis; and tackle climate change in a way that creates good jobs and leaves no worker behind.

“Canada’s unions stand united in the face of greedy corporations and demand governments make mega-profitable companies pay their fair share and play their part in making sure our economy can bounce back and people can prosper. We cannot solve today’s economic crisis by leaving workers and families behind,” concluded Bruske. “Today we march together in communities across Canada, in solidarity, because we believe in a country where workers have the opportunity not just to survive, but to thrive.”

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BERLIN – Today in Germany, Bea Bruske delivered a strong message from international labour leaders to German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, President of the G7.

“When it comes to building a plan to decarbonize every sector of our economies, it is critical that workers are at the table. These workers help build the economies of these countries and they must not be left to carry the burden on their own,” said Bruske, President of the Canadian Labour Congress.

Bruske delivered her comments on behalf of the “Labour 7,” a group of representatives from the trade union federations of the G7 countries.

“We, the labour leaders in G7 countries, urge our governments to move from ambition to implementation on climate protection,” Bruske said in her remarks. “These investments should not be diminished by responding to other global crises. As you stated Monday, Chancellor, increased military spending should not affect social cohesion nor diminish commitments to other priorities.”

Bruske argued that G7 leaders should put workers and their families at the centre of their plans when it comes to action on fighting climate change.

“It was an honour to deliver a clear message from workers to Chancellor Scholz and the G7,” Bruske said. “Labour leaders around the world were able to find common ground around protecting our climate, environment and biodiversity, and accelerating the global energy transition, while building a sustainable and fair economic system where workers are not left behind. This is essential for ensuring a better life for all on our planet.”

Bruske stressed the importance for world leaders to take action, working together with the labour movement, around creating jobs that are family supporting and high quality.

“We must not trade good jobs for low-quality, precarious work. The leaders of the wealthiest nations must understand that building a just transition for workers is central for us to successfully tackle climate change,” said Bruske.

Bruske added that international conventions on occupational health and safety, robust social and workplace protections, and investing in health care and social services are all critical elements to achieving a sustainable planet.

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In advance of the summit, trade union leaders from G7 countries have issued the joint Labour 7 statement to the G7 Leaders’ Summit 2022: Shaping the Global Common Good Peace and Democracy, Climate Action, Health, Fair Digitalisation.

You can read the full statement here.

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OTTAWA––As we mark the first 100 days of this government tomorrow, Canada’s unions welcome progress made on a number of important issues. But with families reeling from rising prices and the pandemic still running through our communities, too many people are being left without help when they need it most.

“We saw the parties work together to make welcome progress over the past 100 days, including passing bills to ban conversion therapy; establish 10 days of paid sick leave for federally regulated workers and protect health care workers from harassment,” said Bea Bruske, President of the Canadian Labour Congress.

“Now we are asking the government and parliament over the next 100 weeks to deliver on stronger and more comprehensive public health care, permanent improvements to EI, help for families struggling with rising prices, and action on fighting climate change, including Just Transition legislation and investments in public transit, clean energy and green manufacturing.”

Bruske also pointed to the government’s promise to bring together the provinces and territories behind a national plan to legislate paid sick leave across the country and the need to better help workers affected by the Omicron wave.

“Despite the pandemic raging now for almost two years, workers are still fighting for the right to stay home when they’re sick and emergency support for when they can’t work. That’s just wrong,” said Bruske. “Every worker, in every province and territory, must have access to critical paid sick leave and emergency help when they’re forced out of work. This is vital for keeping our families and communities safe.”

Bruske added that all political parties have a responsibility to put workers and their families at the centre of Parliament’s work.

“Too often we are seeing heightened political rhetoric when people are looking for their elected representatives to just roll up their sleeves and get down to work for them,” concluded Bruske. “Canada’s unions will continue to actively engage MPs on behalf of millions of working families in this country looking for real progress on the issues that matter.”

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Bea Bruske, president of the Canadian Labour Congress, is available to speak to media today about the federal government’s Lockdown Benefit and the effect restrictions and business closures are having on workers and their families.

In advance of the government’s announcement on December 22, 2021, Bruske said:

“Canada’s unions are profoundly concerned that, with widespread restrictions and closures of businesses, workers and their families are being left without the help they need.

“We warned the government in October that their new law was far too limited in scope and we would be caught unprepared when the next crisis hit. Now we’re in the middle of the worst wave of COVID cases and there is less help available than at any previous point in the pandemic.

“We urge the prime minister and deputy prime minister to take swift action:

• Immediately call a meeting of the Premiers to ensure Canadian workers have access to the paid sick days in every province and territory;
• Declaring a lockdown so the new worker benefit is accessible to all workers now affected or immediately restore the Canada Recover Benefit;
• Ensure any benefit the government provides focus on employees whose wages have dropped substantially. Benefits should not be tied exclusively to workplaces. Often the employer may not qualify under the current rules, but their employees have had their shifts cut and their hours reduced because of new restrictions as a result of omicron;
• For workers in large scale, food production and other close contact workplaces, there must be support in the event of an outbreak to shut down production and have workers stay at home, with pay, until the outbreak is finished; and
• Recall parliament, if necessary, for a virtual sitting, to ensure help is there for the people who need it, now.

“Families shouldn’t have to spend their holidays worried about how they will pay their rent or mortgage in January. We need to provide swift support for the many thousands of workers now affected by the Omicron wave’s devastating impacts on our communities.

“It seems the only thing we can really be sure of with this pandemic is its unpredictability. We must not just lurch from wave to wave and variant to variant without better supports. Hundreds of thousands of workers were left in the cold after emergency benefit were cancelled last October.”

What:    Response to government announcement on Omicron and support for workers

Where:  By phone / remote interview

When:   Wednesday December 22, 2021

Who:    Bea Bruske, President of the Canadian Labour Congress

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The post Workers and their families need help now appeared first on Canadian Labour Congress.

The recent state of emergency in British Columbia (BC) is the latest example of the clear and increasingly disastrous impacts of our global climate crisis. Communities across the province experienced flooding, mudslides and extreme weather, leaving residents displaced or stranded. This extreme weather came after a summer of catastrophic forest fires in BC, causing untold distress for residents, including migrant workers living and working temporarily in the province.

“These events further exposed the magnitude of the climate emergency upon us. But they also underscored just how vulnerable migrant workers are in Canada, most without access to proper protections and supports” said Bea Bruske, President of the Canadian Labour Congress. “Like other workers, migrant workers in Canada should have social protections, labour rights and full access to healthcare services.”

Furthermore, Canada’s unions continue to urge the federal government to provide a pathway to permanent residency for those workers who want it, and to end the closed work permit system which ties migrant workers to one employer and replace it with open work permits.

Climate change continues to be a considerable driver of migration worldwide, and as our global climate crisis worsens, the number of climate migrants – people who are displaced from their homes due to the effects of climate change – will only increase.

During the 2021 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26), the International Organization for Migration (IOM), the World Health Organization (WHO), and Lancet Migration urged all nations to make community-led interventions addressing the issue of migration as a result of climate change a priority, and to urgently strengthen services and systems for migrants.

In Canada, migrant workers are already a particularly vulnerable population when it comes to navigating major social and economic crises – like the climate crisis or the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. They face barriers to accessing critical social services, including health care and employment insurance, as well as worker protections, all due to immigration status. Their precarious status may also affect their ability to find employment if displaced or if these workers lose their jobs.

A new report from Canada’s Auditor General also demonstrates that the government checks and balances meant to protect the wellbeing of these workers are not working. The report, which reviewed inspections carried out by the department responsible for assessing the pandemic protections for temporary foreign workers, shows government failure to protect migrant workers in Canada’s agricultural sector. The report showed problems in almost three quarters of quarantine inspections assessed during the course of the study.

“Without comprehensive worker and social protections to safeguard against employer exploitation, mistreatment, abuse and discriminatory workplace policies, the safety and lives of migrant workers are being repeatedly put a risk,” said Bruske. “Migrant workers have played an essential part in keeping our communities cared for throughout the pandemic, and like all workers, deserve justice and a fair future.”

To arrange an interview, please contact:
CLC Media Relations
media@clcctc.ca
613-526-7426

The post Canada’s unions calling for greater protections and supports for migrant workers appeared first on Canadian Labour Congress.

Hundreds of workers have been engaging MPs about the need for swift action to help struggling seniors and better support care workers as Parliament works to end the pandemic and start Canada along the long road towards an equitable economic recovery.

“Hundreds of union members reached out to over 140 MPs and sent over 1,700 letters, sharing powerful stories explaining the urgent need for Parliament to make sure people are not left behind,” said Bea Bruske, President of the Canadian Labour Congress (CLC). “A critical first step would be for the government to use the upcoming Economic and Fiscal Update to immediately end the unfair GIS clawbacks tens of thousands of low-income seniors are now facing.”

Canada’s unions’ Action Week also involved 265 union members reaching out to meet their MP, almost 10,000 peer-to-peer text conversations, and 574 people engaged in training and webinars.

“With rising inflation and so many Canadians still struggling, union members are delivering a clear message to Parliamentarians that it is vital they remain focussed on helping people,” said Bruske. “MPs heard from care workers who have spent the past 20 months working around the clock on the frontlines of the fight against COVID-19 about their need for better support. Care workers have had our backs, now it’s time MPs have theirs.”

Bruske added that energy workers also engaged MPs with a clear message that action against climate change is imperative – and this must include investments in green infrastructure, green jobs and a just transition so no worker is left behind.

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To arrange an interview, please contact:
CLC Media Relations
media@clcctc.ca
613-526-7426

The post Rank and file union members engage MPs with powerful stories about the need to end seniors’ clawbacks appeared first on Canadian Labour Congress.

“Workers are raising their voices to make sure our elected representatives hear, loud and clear, about the need for concrete action to make life more affordable and an economic recovery plan that puts workers and their families at its heart,” said Bea Bruske, President of the CLC. “This is an opportunity for MPs to better understand the real challenges facing the people they were elected to represent.”

The CLC has been working with hundreds of workers from across the country to help them get ready to meet virtually with MPs and tell their stories.

Canada’s unions will continue to push the government and MPs from all parties to work together on a fair, progressive and worker-centred economic recovery. This includes action to:

• Bolster our social safety net through programs and services workers rely on, like child care, paid sick days and a permanent fix to employment insurance.
• Strengthen our public health care system, including through universal pharmacare, public long-term care and investments in mental health care.
• Invest in the care economy and replace lost jobs with better ones that keep workers safe and supported.
• Act on climate change through investments in green infrastructure and a just transition that makes sure no worker is left behind.

“It is vital MPs hear from workers as they move forward on the economic recovery. The reality is, there is no recovery without workers,” said Bruske. “We will make sure that every MP hears how workers kept this country running during the pandemic, and it’s long past time we build a more equitable, inclusive and sustainable economy.”

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To arrange an interview, please contact:
CLC Media Relations
media@clcctc.ca
613-526-7426

The post MPs must listen to workers and take action on a fair recovery that makes life more affordable appeared first on Canadian Labour Congress.

Bea Bruske, President of the Canadian Labour Congress, is available to speak to the media about the upcoming return of Parliament and what a workers-centred recovery looks like.

“The pandemic laid bare existing inequities and the reality is many workers and families are still struggling. Parliament must act quickly to help people now being left behind after the cancellation of emergency help last month,” said Bruske. “Canada’s unions are committed to working with the government and all parties in Parliament on behalf of Canada’s workers and their families.”

“We need concrete action to help take the strain off family budgets with investments in making housing affordable; implementation of pharmacare – to make medicine affordable for everyone; child care deals with every province and territory, so parents now pushed to the economic sidelines have a path back to the labour force; and a permanent fix to our broken EI system, so our social safety net is there for the next crisis, whether health or climate related,” concluded Bruske.

Learn more about how Canada’s unions are helping to shape the recovery at canadianplan.ca.

When: Interviews can be arranged between November 19 and November 22

What: President Bea Bruske available for comment on Canada’s unions’ priorities for return of Parliament

Where: Virtual or in-person, by arrangement

To arrange an interview, please contact:
CLC Media Relations
media@clcctc.ca
613-526-7426

The post President Bea Bruske available to speak about Canada’s unions’ priorities for new Parliament appeared first on Canadian Labour Congress.

A few short weeks ago, I was truly honoured to be elected to serve the working people of Canada as president of the Canadian Labour Congress. My fellow officers and I do not take this responsibility lightly – and it is not a job anyone can do alone. We are counting on you for your support … and your action.

Lily Chang, Siobhán Vipond, Larry Rousseau and I have already hit the ground running because we know that Canadians may very well be headed towards a federal election in the middle of a pandemic – making it one of the most important elections in a generation.

My first experience in the labour movement was as a young worker fighting for fair wages, benefits and protections at a corner grocery store in Winnipeg. My spirits were lifted by the incredible support we received from other workers and community members.

That memory has continued to inspire me to stand up for other people, speak out against injustice, and to always – always – try to make the world a better place.

But that memory also stands out because of how relevant that lesson is today.

When the global pandemic plunged our economy into uncertainty, it was front line workers in every sector who kept our families safe and healthy, and our communities running.

After being celebrated as heroes for the first few months, most of those workers lost their wage premiums, despite their continued dedication and exposure to risk. Meanwhile, many of the corporate CEOs clawing back their benefits continue making record profits.

I am sure that every worker in Canada has a unique story about the impact of the pandemic.

The upcoming federal election will be our opportunity to define Canada’s priorities.

It is our opportunity to fight for decent wages, standards, and equity to ensure no one is left behind, and we know that workers’ rights are human rights.

It is our opportunity to fight for paid sick leave and social programs – like universal pharmacare, affordable childcare, better healthcare and a stronger social safety net – to put an end to precarity and insecurity.

And it is our opportunity to protect the planet for future generations, by demanding bold climate action and a sustainable recovery.

That’s why I am asking you, and every worker in Canada, to sign up to be a part of this fight.

Click here to join our Action Team to help amplify worker issues and priorities in the upcoming federal election. We will call on you to share messages, send letters, and press local candidates and national parties to support worker issues.

I also invite you to follow me on Facebook and Twitter to be a part of my team too.

After all, I know that we are much stronger when we work together.

In Solidarity,

Bea Bruske
President

The post Open Letter to the Working People of Canada appeared first on Canadian Labour Congress.

This new law enshrines Canada’s commitment to reach net-zero emissions by 2050. It also provides a foundation to build on to ensure the country breaks its track record of having missed every climate target it has ever set.

“This law provides a path for Canada to reach its emissions targets, as well as setting milestone targets to make sure we stay on track. Now we must hold the government accountable for meeting those milestones,” said Bea Bruske, President of the Canadian Labour Congress. “A Just Transition for workers will be an important aspect in meeting these targets.”

After the initial bill was introduced in the House of Commons, CLC worked with environmental and other civil society allies to encourage all parties to work to strengthen the legislation.

The CLC has called for expanded public investment in renewable energy production, green building construction and public transportation, as well as skills training. These investments would lead to the large-scale creation of good jobs.

“Canada needs strong Just Transition measures to assist workers in resource communities and fossil fuel-dependent economies to access new job opportunities,” said Bruske. “These workers need assurances from the government that they will not be left behind, and we look forward to seeing specific legislation on a Just Transition in the near future.”

Canada’s unions are committed to addressing the climate emergency and will continue to advocate for aggressive solutions towards solving what remains the most serious threat to our current and future prosperity and well-being.

The CLC looks forward to the mandated legislative review of the bill in five years, when the government of the day can be held to account for the progress it has made.

For more information, please contact:

CLC Media Relations
media@clcctc.ca
613-526-7426

The post Net-zero law lays foundation for stronger climate action appeared first on Canadian Labour Congress.

These shortcomings were not accidental; they were the result of a political agenda that prioritized cutting taxes, minimizing costs and regulatory burdens for employers, keeping workers vulnerable and reducing social program spending and public investment. In the 2020 pandemic, the decades-old priority placed on balanced budgets and holding down social investment failed Canadians spectacularly. Equally, however, the improvised emergency income supports, caregiver benefits, sick benefits and other measures rushed into place contained the seeds, however partial and incomplete, of a more resilient, equitable and inclusive society.

The CLC, which represents over 3 million workers in Canada, previously responded to the budget announcement, and is now issuing a more in-depth analysis of what these commitments by the federal government will mean for Canadian workers and their families.

Read the CLC’s full analysis here.

The post Canada’s unions release detailed analysis of Budget 2021 appeared first on Canadian Labour Congress.

“Today’s ruling by the Supreme Court of Canada is an important win for Canada’s ability to combat the worst impacts of climate change,” said Hassan Yussuff, President of the CLC. “We can now take ambitious steps towards a just transition to a net-zero Canadian economy, with good jobs and thriving communities.”

Canada’s unions are pleased with the precedent this decision establishes for ambitious climate policy going forward. The ruling confirms that it is within the federal government’s jurisdiction to implement minimum nation-wide standards of GHG pricing as part of its climate action plan.

Working people and their families are already suffering the effects of climate change in the form of forest fires, floods, droughts and severe heat stress. With jobs and livelihoods at stake, workers have a personal investment in efforts to limit the worst effects of climate change. Steps to mitigate climate change must be coupled with just transition measures to generate good jobs and provide income, re-employment and retraining support for workers and communities in the transition to a green economy. Governments must invest in the creation of high quality low-carbon jobs, across all sectors of the economy, including clean energy, public transit and transportation and green buildings and retrofits. And workers must be at the table helping to shape their own future.

The GGPPA established a national framework for carbon pricing, both from industrial emitters and consumers. The federal rules set minimum standards for carbon pricing, leaving provinces the ability to set their own policies. However, if a province falls short of the national standard or does not have its own carbon-pricing system, the federal government would apply its own carbon price.

“Climate change one of the greatest challenges of our time,” said Yussuff. “We are in a climate emergency and addressing climate change requires a commitment from all levels of government in every region of the country. The GGPPA ensures that all jurisdictions contribute to putting a price on carbon and other greenhouse gases. While carbon pricing is only one piece of the puzzle, we have to use every tool we have to quickly bring down emissions and achieve net-zero by 2050.”

The post Canada’s unions applaud Supreme Court decision upholding federal carbon pricing appeared first on Canadian Labour Congress.

Expanded investments in energy efficiency, conservation and large-scale retrofitting of residential and commercial structures will create significant numbers of new jobs and require expanded investments in skills training and growing Canada’s construction trades.

Green and climate-resilient infrastructure investments will also mean an expanded skilled trades workforce.

“Labour will be looking to the federal government to make good on its commitment to supporting local job creation, skills training, apprenticeships and decent wages for workers, especially to those historically underrepresented in the skilled trades sector, including Indigenous workers, racialized workers and women,” said Hassan Yussuff, President of the Canadian Labour Congress.

“Canada needs strong Just Transition measures to assist workers in resource communities and fossil fuel-dependent economies to access new job opportunities in clean energy, green transportation, efficient buildings and conservation if Canada hopes to meet and exceed the targets and prevent the worst outcomes of climate change.”

Canada’s unions welcome the government’s emphasis on domestic manufacturing, including developing Canadian supply chains for low-emission building materials, clean tech, and aerospace and automotive investments, and leveraging the power of public procurement. Additionally, unions are noting the crucial commitments made today towards bringing Indigenous communities into the process.

Despite today’s heavy emphasis on market signals and the private sector, public investment and planning will be vital to meeting Canada’s emissions-reduction targets.

“Today’s commitments towards public transit, including the domestic procurement of ZEV public transit and school buses, demonstrate progress,” added Yussuff.

As for increases on the price of carbon, unions are urging the government to ensure that the burden is fairly distributed, with low- and modest-income families protected.

Furthermore, the CLC welcomes the Government of Canada’s commitment to deliver on the country’s G20 commitment to phase-out all inefficient fossil fuel subsidies by 2025 and its commitment to explore border carbon adjustments on imports.

To read more about the directed investments the CLC is calling for, visit canadianplan.ca.

To arrange an interview, please contact:
CLC Media Relations
media@clcctc.ca
613-526-7426

The post Canada’s unions welcome federal government commitments on climate change appeared first on Canadian Labour Congress.

The latest figures from this morning’s release of Statistics Canada’s Labour Force Survey demonstrates a weakening jobs rebound. The survey showed a slowing recovery, with employment rising just 0.5 percent in October, a dramatic slowdown compared to summer months. The unemployment rate currently sits at 8.9 percent, and long-term unemployment rose sharply in September and October.

“Growing long-term joblessness means more workers risk disconnection from the job market, causing lasting harm to skills, incomes and opportunities,” said Hassan Yussuff, President of the Canadian Labour Congress. “The federal government assured Canadians it is committed to creating one million new jobs and that will be crucial. Time is running out for hundreds of thousands of workers who are seeing job prospects deteriorate in the midst of a second wave of the pandemic which shows no signs of slowing,”

Canada’s unions are calling on the federal government to provide details on its commitments when it tables the next fiscal update.

Nearly 50,000 people working in the already hard-hit accommodation and hospitality sector lost their jobs in October. The job recovery in various industries including construction, transportation and warehousing remains stalled.

The latest survey also shows that workers of colour struggle with a higher unemployment rate (11.7%) than Canadians who were not Indigenous or racialized.

Women of various backgrounds also continue to experience disproportionately lower rates of employment than men; racialized women are even more disadvantaged.

To read more about the direct investments the CLC is calling for, visit canadianplan.ca.

To arrange an interview, please contact:
CLC Media Relations
media@clcctc.ca
613-526-7426

The post Canada’s unions say slowing job recovery necessitates urgent government intervention appeared first on Canadian Labour Congress.

On any given day of a normal year, Parliament Hill is buzzing with people lobbying elected representatives. According to the federal government’s lobbying commissioner, there were 18,728 monthly communications reports submitted in 2019 20.

Those communications reports were generated in large part by paid, registered lobbyists working with large corporations.

This year, there are far fewer meetings on the Hill but that doesn’t mean that elected representatives aren’t hearing from anyone. They are. And we want to make sure they’re hearing from workers, too. We know that pressing issues are mounting for many workers and communities across the country. In the past six months, people have seen their livelihoods disappear or they are staving off disaster, all while worrying about their health and the health of their families.

Workers want to see governments make decisions that will improve their lives and move Canada forward. They want to trust the government will make decisions based on the needs of everyday working people and of their communities. We only need to look South to see what can go wrong when governments let down their citizens.

In 2019, a study done by the OECD showed trust in government is falling worldwide. In 2019, only 38 per cent of Canadians said they had confidence in the government. The good news is that it has gone up since the pandemic made government more central to our lives than ever, according to a report from Samara Canada. Trust in government now stands at 59 per cent. This should not be taken for granted.

One of the best ways to maintain trust is to encourage citizen engagement in decision making.

This is why we are organizing the first-ever virtual lobbying effort, National Action Week. It’s an opportunity for workers from across the country to participate in our democracy, even in the midst of a pandemic. We are helping them reach out to their elected representatives to tell decision-makers what needs to happen in their communities.

Our hope is that our week of action will not only allow for conversations that will build trust in our democracy, but that these meetings will open the door for further conversations. Knowledge sharing is also essential for trust in democracy, meaning elected representatives should provide information and answer questions from their constituents – and constituents should know to ask questions.

After all, so much has changed and Members of Parliament need to hear from their constituents on what they need to focus on. Millions of people who were employed in March are now dependent on the government for support. As we continue to respond and as we move towards a recovery stage, the Minister of Finance has indicated the government is willing to make more and longer-term investments to provide economic stimulus, given historically low interest rates.

The most important thing right now is to move government investment into those sectors that will offer the most benefit to the most people across the country. The Prime Minister talks about building back better, and there are priorities that can’t be ignored if this government plans to improve the lives of those most affected by this pandemic.

The government made clear in September’s Speech from the Throne that it is listening to the concerns of workers and their families. The speech promised investments to create new jobs, accelerate the implementation of universal national pharmacare and focus on child care and long-term care. Workers across Canada are trusting that the government will include all these investments in the next federal budget and go even further, including raising the federal minimum wage to $15 dollars an hour as promised in the last federal election.

Those who have been working on the front lines without proper protective equipment, those who have watched their loved ones suffer in for-profit long-term care homes, parents who have been stuck with no options for child care, women forced to choose between career and family after all these years of progress deserve support. These workers know where investments need to go and so should their representatives.

They are ready to bring their stories and experiences directly to policy-makers. It’s up to those making decisions to listen carefully and act accordingly in the best interests of the nation’s workers and their families.

Hassan Yussuff is the president of the Canadian Labour Congress. Follow him on Twitter @Hassan_Yussuff

The post Canada’s workers engage MPs during first-ever Virtual Action Week appeared first on Canadian Labour Congress.

The pandemic exposed deep disparities and vulnerabilities in our economy and society. It has also radically changed the lives of people across Canada.

Workers want the federal government to disaster-proof the economy by committing to investments in job creation, pharmacare and child care, among others.

CLC President Hassan Yussuff is available to comment on the Action Week priorities and to discuss the importance of hosting such a large-scale virtual lobbying event, even in the midst of the current crisis.

To arrange an interview, please contact:

CLC Media Relations
media@clcctc.ca
Office: 613-526-7426
Cell: 613-355-1962

The post Canada’s unions hosting virtual Action Week appeared first on Canadian Labour Congress.

Workers around the world want investment in public health and care services including mental health, child care, early childhood education, elderly care and other social care services that serve all our communities. In Canada, unions are also calling for a federal Care Economy Commission.

Decades of austerity-driven fiscal policies and a market-based approach to the delivery of care have created inequities and gaps.

“We have been sounding the alarm about the crisis in care services for years,” said CLC Secretary-Treasurer Marie Clarke Walker. “The added pressure of the COVID-19 pandemic has compounded these problems. Our economy is relying more than ever on unpaid labour, and on precarious, low-wage work done by women, a disproportionate number of whom are racialized.”

Canada needs care-focused solutions for the recovery. These solutions must meet the needs of our most vulnerable, create better jobs and disaster-proof our economy and our social safety net against future crises.

The proposed federal Care Economy Commission would study, design and implement a care strategy for Canada that would:

• Create a broad and inclusive labour market strategy to achieve high-quality, equitable care jobs;
• Examine paid and unpaid care work and develop a roadmap to meet the increasing demands for care; and
• Reduce and redistribute women’s unpaid care work by improving access to public care services for children, the elderly and people living with disabilities.

“This pandemic has shone a light on what’s been broken for too long,” said Walker. “We need to rethink our approach to care. Strong public care systems – whether health care, child care, long term care or care services for persons with disabilities – are central to the well-being of individuals, families and communities.”

Canada’s unions are calling for a Canadian plan that’s rooted in our way of doing things – and that means taking care of one another. Public investments in services – not austerity – are a key part of a robust response and recovery that ensures our collective well-being.

The post Canada’s unions join Global Day of Action on Care appeared first on Canadian Labour Congress.

Canada’s unions believe the federal government should use the 2020-21 budget to set out clear plans and targets to address climate change and a Just Transition for workers, the ongoing child care crisis, and the implementation of National Pharmacare. The government must also commit to implementing the recommendations on the Expert Panel on Modern Federal Labour Standards.

You can read the Canadian Labour Congress’ full pre-budget submission here.

The post Labour’s vision for the 2021 federal budget appeared first on Canadian Labour Congress.

In this unprecedented health and economic crisis brought on by the pandemic, nature has the power to give solace, soothe collective anxieties and provide hope. As spring emerges across the country, we are reminded of the incredible stresses placed on our planet, as well as it’s incredible capacity for recovery, but only if given a chance.

The world is in the grip of an unprecedented health and economic crisis. Today, governments are largely focused on public health measures to slow the spread of COVID-19, and on providing much needed relief for Canadians facing unprecedented economic hardship as a result of the pandemic, while also working to address challenges in supply chains to ensure that our access to critical medical and protective equipment, healthy food and other necessary goods remain intact.

Despite reports of diminished travel and industrial activity resulting in dramatic improvements in air and water quality, the climate emergency has not gone away. If anything, it serves as a stark reminder of the human cause of the climate crisis.

We still have only 10 years for the world to dramatically reduce emissions in order to avoid the worst impacts of climate change. The need for a just transition to a low-carbon economy, one that puts people and good jobs at the centre of climate action remains.

Today, protecting Canadians from the health and economic crisis created by the pandemic is an urgent priority. As public health measures begin to work, and the curve of the pandemic begins to flatten, Canadians and our governments will turn their attention to rebuilding our economy. It will be important to build measures to meet our Paris Agreement commitments into our economic recovery plans. We don’t have time to lose.

This month’s federal government announcement of $1.7 billion to clean up orphan oil and gas wells in Alberta, Saskatchewan and British Columbia was a promising sign. This investment will help maintain thousands of jobs, including many in Alberta, where most orphan wells are located. This is welcome news in a province suffering from deep job losses as global oil prices have plummeted in recent months. Orphan wells are those that have been abandoned by developers who can’t be located, have gone bankrupt or don’t have the financial means to properly decommission them.

This 50^th Earth Day anniversary, Canada’s unions re-state our commitment to ambitious climate action, and a just transition to green and decent jobs for all. As we weather the COVID-19 pandemic, let us remember to take care of our loved ones and communities, find time to appreciate the beauty of nature, thank a front line worker, and please stay home and wash your hands.

The post Earth Day 2020 appeared first on Canadian Labour Congress.

“From increasing health coverage, to tackling climate change, to improving working conditions, this new minority government has set benchmarks for success,” said CLC President Hassan Yussuff. “Pharmacare has been an issue the CLC has been heavily advocating for over the last few years. Nobody should have to choose between paying for groceries and paying for medication they need—Canada is ready for universal pharmacare.”

In another move towards fairness, the throne speech announced the government’s intent to establish a federal minimum wage as a standard across Canada. This announcement comes as welcomed news to Canada’s unions and workers across Canada struggling at low-wage jobs.

“Not only will a federal minimum wage benefit tens of thousands of Canadians directly, it will put pressure on the provinces to follow suit,” added Yussuff. “Lifting people out of poverty, an increased minimum wage will have an important impact on the Canadian economy.”

Canada’s unions are also looking to the federal government to lead the way on finding the right balance between protecting jobs and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Today’s commitments on climate change begin to transition Canada towards a more sustainable future.

“We need bold targets to fight climate change, we owe that to our children,” said Yussuff. “We also owe the next generation good jobs and commitments to minimize the impact on workers. Today’s commitments move us towards a greener economy.”

Creating protections for workers facing domestic violence has been a focus for the CLC over the past few years, working internationally to end gender-based violence.

“Building a national action plan on ending violence against women will go a long way,” added Yussuff.

Over the coming months, Canada’s unions will work with this minority government to ensure today’s commitments become a reality. The CLC is looking forward to getting to work building universal pharmacare and ensuring this government is building a fairer Canada for everyone.

For more information and to set up an interview, please contact:

media@clcctc.ca
613-526-7426

The post Now is the time to build a fair Canada for everyone appeared first on Canadian Labour Congress.

“Gender Equality Week was created to celebrate recent gains while reflecting on the work that needs to be done to improve gender equality and women’s rights across Canada,” said Marie Clarke Walker, Secretary-Treasurer of the Canadian Labour Congress (CLC). “With a federal election underway, we are asking political leaders to take this opportunity to prove their commitment to women’s rights and gender equality.”

Gender Equality Week runs from September 22 to 28, 2019 and was first introduced by the federal government in 2018 through Bill C-309, the Gender Equality Act. This year’s theme is #EveryoneBenefits and is inspired by the vision of a gender equal society and the benefits of advancing gender equality to women, men and people of all gender identities.

“On election day, voters will have the chance to reject the politics of division by voting for a party that stands firmly for gender equality and women’s rights,” said Clarke Walker. “We hope to make that choice much easier by asking candidates to distinguish themselves through concrete platform commitments.” 

The CLC’s plan for “A Fair Canada for Everyone” asks political parties to commit to taking action on five key priorities for working people and their families – actions that can make a real difference for women and help promote gender equality.

Women deserve good jobs, liveable wages and fair working conditions.

Unions are calling for action on pay and employment equity, access to universal, affordable child care and a federal task force on care work and care jobs.

Women deserve opportunities to learn and advance their careers. They deserve adequate support to balance work, family and personal time.

Women should not face barriers in accessing medication.

Many women do not have workplace benefits and face difficult choices when they or a loved one requires medication they cannot afford. Everyone in Canada deserves a universal, single-payer, public prescription drug plan that would guarantee pharmacare for all.

Women deserve retirement security.

Thanks to the persistent gender pay gap, senior women are among Canada’s poorest populations. After a lifetime of hard work (whether paid or unpaid), no one should have to struggle to make ends meet. Action on retirement security means improved Old Age Security benefits and a reformed Guaranteed Income Supplement.

Women must be at the centre of climate action.

The climate crisis will have a disproportionate impact on women and marginalized populations. Smart investments in a clean future will put people at the centre of climate action. Investments in renewable energy, clean technology and green manufacturing can provide a source of good, green jobs for women. Climate action can also include investments in social infrastructure to help create and support good jobs and resilient communities.

Women deserve a government focused on equity and inclusion.

Canadians need a government committed to challenging hate and intolerance in all its forms. They need a government ready to improve our immigration and refugee policies, track and report on hate groups, and commit to strengthening Canada’s action plan against racism.

They also need an action plan to implement the recommendations of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.

“The CLC’s election campaign outlines a plan that would promote gender equality and make a real difference in the lives of women and their families,” said Clarke Walker. “Everyone benefits if we unite together to challenge racism, welcome refugees and support real reconciliation with Indigenous peoples. This election we are demanding fairness.”

This Gender Equality Week, unions are calling on voters to attend local election town halls and debates to ask candidates what their party is prepared to do to promote gender equality and a fairer Canada for everyone.

CLC Secretary-Treasurer Marie Clarke Walker will be hosting a Facebook Live event on Wednesday, September 25 at noon EST featuring a conversation about what is at stake for gender equality in the federal election.

Voters can sign up for real-time election updates from the CLC as the campaign progresses.

The post Unions mark Gender Equality Week with election demands appeared first on Canadian Labour Congress.

The strikes were started in August of 2018 by 16-year-old Swedish activist Greta Thunberg. These #FridaysForFuture student strikes now take place in communities all over the world, including across Canada.

Students are asking Canada’s unions to stand with them for a Global Climate Strike, starting on Friday, September 20, and culminating with a global day of action on Friday, September 27, to coincide with the UN Secretary General’s climate summit, convening Monday, September 23.

The CLC stands in support of this important call to action.

“This climate strike marks a crucial moment,” said Hassan Yussuff, President of the Canadian Labour Congress. “It is amazing to witness courageous young people across the world taking action for their own futures. Canada’s unions call on governments to commit to fighting climate change with urgency and ambition. The youth of today deserve a tomorrow.”

The global week of action marks a crucial moment, both in terms of public attention and of policy decisions.

“Unions know the only way to achieve a successful and lasting transition to environmental sustainability is to ensure that workers are part of the local, industry-wide and national plans,” said Yussuff. “With the right investments we don’t have to choose between a strong economy that works for people and a healthy planet. Canadians must tell politicians seeking our votes in October that we won’t accept anything less.”

Unions have been reaching out to policy-makers with Just Transition proposals, including Canada’s Just Transition Task Force for Canadian Coal Power Workers and Communities.

Actions will be taking place in communities across the country, in collaboration with youth, environmental and other groups. You can find an event in your area here. Greta Thunberg, the original #FridaysForFuture student striker, will join the rally in Montreal on September 27.

Not all workers will be able to join the marches and rallies in person, but there are many ways to demonstrate solidarity and support for this critical call to action, including showing solidarity on social media, participating in actions on your lunch break, starting a conversation about reducing emissions in your own workplace, or raising climate action with your local candidates in the federal election.

Those who do join the strikes should first speak with their union and consult relevant legislation to understand the legal implications of their actions.

There is more work to be done.

Hassan Yussuff
President

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In its ongoing negotiations on the Mercosur trade deal with Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay, Canada must ensure the agreement contains enforceable provisions that uphold environmental protections, labour and Indigenous rights.

Increased North American and European market access for Brazilian beef, soy and other agricultural products has been a primary driver behind the fires and deforestation of the Amazon, made increasingly possible by the Bolsonaro government’s attempt to dismantle environmental and Indigenous protections. 

Any trade deal reached with Mercosur must ensure that such kinds of environmental, labour and human rights violations are halted through the inclusion of enforceable provisions in the agreement and a complaint system that allows concerned citizens to initiate inquiries where violations are suspected. Furthermore, future rounds of negotiations with Mercosur must be made transparent to the public, allowing citizens to monitor the process and ensure that effective environmental protections are enshrined in any agreement that is ultimately ratified. 

Canadian labour stands in solidarity with our Mercosur sisters and brothers in ensuring the global protection of human, environmental and labour rights.

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You can be forgiven if you’ve avoided thinking about the upcoming federal election all summer, but Labour Day is here. That means it’s time to return to the fall routine and start thinking about how you are going to cast your ballot.

You may have seen politicians working the barbecue circuit, vying for the support of workers and their families. They often claim to know what voters need. Let’s tell them what voters want.

After all, voting for the country we want is both a cherished right, and a significant responsibility.  And it’s under threat.

Lies, misinformation, and propaganda proliferating online are dividing and distracting people like never before.

We know that domestic and foreign actors will likely continue to foment division through contentious topics like immigration and the environment. We must remain united and focused on what truly matters: a present and future that leaves no one behind.

Not only are we facing an uncertain future, but the strides working people have made in the last four years are also in jeopardy. 

Canada’s unions are cutting through the noise with a simple message to voters: Canadians must elect a government that is committed to a fair Canada for everyone.

This is much more than a slogan but a clear call to action on five key areas that will shape the future of this country. Each of them centre on the health and well-being of Canadians.

Canada’s unions have successfully worked with governments and health experts to make universal pharmacare a ballot box issue this fall.

That’s because over 3.5 million Canadians struggle to pay for the medications they need. Private insurers and pharmaceutical companies have a vested interest in preserving a status quo that sees Canadians paying some of the highest drug prices in the world. Canada remains the only developed country with universal health care, without a universal pharmacare plan. A single-payer system would rein in drug prices and save Canadians over four billion dollars per year, according to the Parliamentary Budget Officer.

Also key to the well-being of Canadians is the assurance that they will be able to live in dignity in retirement. Following the Conservative party’s defeat in the last federal election, Canada’s unions lobbied for an expansion of public pensions and won a 50% increase to Canada Pension Plan benefits, along with top-up payments for 900,000 low-income single seniors and the restoration of Old Age Security and Guaranteed Income Supplement for those over the age of 65, down from 67.

We need a government that is committed to improving public pensions and protecting hard-earned private pensions when employers go bankrupt. 

We also need to talk about the economic health of our nation’s working people. With a rise in precarious, temporary, and low-wage work, more and more people are struggling to get by. We need to vote for a government that clearly defines what it will invest towards creating good jobs for all Canadians.

It’s also time for bold action that tackles our climate emergency while creating economic opportunities in green industries. We deserve a government that is committed to clean air and water, invests in public transportation, and supports workers and communities transitioning to a greener economy.

With hardline Conservative governments now running the majority of the provinces, we cannot forget what a decade of Stephen Harper’s Conservatives did to working people and their families and risk the rollback of hard-won social gains and the rewriting of the Canadian constitution.

Can Canadians afford a government that cares more about private corporations and tax cuts for the super-rich than it does about everyday working people? Can we risk electing a government that refuses to address the climate catastrophe? Can we accept a government that is prepared to exploit people’s fear and insecurity to fuel racism and intolerance?

This Labour Day, let’s recommit to standing together for an inclusive Canada where everyone prospers.

Hassan Yussuff is the President of the Canadian Labour Congress. Follow him on Twitter @Hassan_Yussuff.

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That means unions will be calling on Canadian workers to vote for candidates who support universal pharmacare, retirement security, climate action, equity and inclusion, and good jobs for everyone.

“Over the last four years, our work has resulted in impressive gains: expanding public pensions, protecting victims of domestic violence, investing billions in infrastructure projects, banning asbestos, and making pay equity the law,” said Hassan Yussuff, President of the Canadian Labour Congress (CLC).

“While these have been substantial victories, we are only getting started. Low wages, precarious work and underemployment continue to hurt too many Canadians; fear and insecurity are fueling racism and intolerance, and climate change threatens the survival of our planet.”

“We will do our part to mobilize Canadians to choose candidates who will make Canada more fair for workers and their families,” said Yussuff.

“We will be urging every candidate to commit to creating good jobs. We will be pushing the political parties for climate action for a sustainable planet. We will be challenging hate and divisiveness with equity and inclusion.”

By launching a national campaign, “A Fair Canada for Everyone”, the CLC will be working with labour councils, federations of labour and unions across the country to advance the issues at stake for workers and their families.

“Labour Day is a national reminder that workers can come together to improve workplaces and communities, so it is a fitting time to launch our election campaign for a fair Canada for everyone,” adds Yussuff.

To read details about what unions are calling for in this election, visit faircanadaforeveryone.ca

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“The Task Force worked to put people and communities at the heart of climate policy by developing ten practical and concrete recommendations on how to support affected workers and communities through the transition away from coal-fired electricity, with worker involvement and local decision making at the centre,” said Hassan Yussuff, President of the Canadian Labour Congress.

Co-chaired by Yussuff, the Task Force’s mandate was to provide the federal government with recommendations for how to support a just and fair transition for Canadian coal workers and communities, as Canada meets its commitment to transition away from coal-powered electricity by 2030. It has been working since April 2018 and included strong representation from labour, as well as a former employer in the coal-power sector, a councillor from an affected municipality, and experts in workforce transitions and sustainable development.

“I want to thank the workers and community members who met with the Task Force. Learning about their jobs and their communities and hear directly about what they need to make this transition away from coal-fired power a just transition was key to crafting these recommendations,” said Yussuff.

The task force met with workers and federal, provincial and municipal governments and other stakeholders in communities with coal power facilities across the four affected provinces of Alberta, Saskatchewan, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia.

“It has been an honour to serve as a co-chair for this task force and look forward to working with the government to ensure meaningful action on implementing these much needed recommendations,” said Yussuff. “Canada’s unions will be watching next week’s federal budget for signs that the government will support workers and their communities as Canada works to address climate change.”

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The Canadian Labour Congress is conducting campaigns calling on the federal government to address key issues affecting working people; calling for a change of the rules to create decent work and dignity for all Canadians.

“Improving the lives of all workers is always a top priority for Canada’s unions. The current climate of precarity and cut backs in Canada makes it more important than ever to advocate for good jobs to ensure stability and dignity for every Canadian worker,” said CLC President Hassan Yussuff. “We believe that decent work must include access to affordable child care, bankruptcy protection for workers’ pensions and proactive pay equity legislation, just to name a few.”

On this Day for Decent Work, Canada’s unions are calling on the federal government to prioritize access to decent work in Canada by taking the following steps:

• Restore the federal minimum wage to $15 per hour, indexing it to wage growth, and bring back full employment as a primary policy target;
• End wage discrimination and adopt strong, proactive pay equity legislation incorporating the recommendations of the 2004 Pay Equity Task Force. Women’s wages shouldn’t come at a discount, but the gender pay gap in Canada hasn’t improved in decades. In fact, for many women it’s getting worse. Making pay equity the law would ensure different jobs are compared for their value in the workplace and evaluated based on skill, effort, responsibility, and working conditions, leaving no room for gender discrimination;
• Reform bankruptcy laws to include protection for workers’ pensions and benefits.  Workers trade higher wages today in exchange for a pension in retirement – it’s wrong to force them to the back of the line when an employer goes bankrupt;
• Make workplaces safe by strengthening federal legislation on sexual harassment and violence. Sexual harassment and violence remains a very serious barrier to women’s equality, especially in the workplace. Sexual harassment and violence can have serious consequences on women’s physical, emotional and mental health, and on their work performance. It can compromise their ability to advance in the workplace and even lead to job loss;
• Fix the child care crisis and commit to long-term funding for high-quality, public, universal, affordable child care. Access to quality, affordable child care is about economic justice for women. Child care makes it possible for women to get a decent job, support their families, build a career, and further their education or skills training; and
• Phase-out coal power through progressive policy that keeps people and communities at the center. The Just Transition Task Force for Canadian Coal-Power Workers and Communities will develop recommendations aimed at influencing Canada’s plans to phase-out coal power. These will include helping workers find comparable employment through retraining programs and resources to help affected communities transition their local economy.

Decent work means equal opportunities for everyone to get work that is productive and delivers a fair income, security in the workplace and social protection for families, better prospects for personal development, and social integration.

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“The world is watching. By launching this task force, Canada has the opportunity to set an international example on how to implement progressive policy to reduce emissions while keeping people and communities at the centre,” said CLC President and Task Force Co-chair Hassan Yussuff.

Workers will have a strong voice at the table thanks to a significant labour presence on the 11-member task force. Yussuff will be joined by five representatives from Canadian unions who can speak to the concerns of coal workers and their families.

“People affected by plans to phase-out coal power must be at the heart of this transition. This task force will help ensure that the needs of workers and communities – as well as Canada’s environmental goals – are met,” said Yussuff.

Yussuff commended Environment Minister Catherine McKenna on her personal commitment to the creation of this task force. The Task Force will develop recommendations to present to Minister McKenna to influence Canada’s plans to phase-out coal power. This would include helping workers find comparable employment through retraining programs and resources to help affected communities transition their local economy.

“I look forward to working collaboratively with the government and the members of the Task Force to develop effective and practical solutions to support Canada’s transition for coal power workers and communities,” said Yussuff.

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“Unions, business, communities and governments must work together on comprehensive strategies that will ensure those most affected can adapt and thrive as we shift to a zero-carbon economy,” said CLC President Hassan Yussuff.

Yussuff pointed to the reality of climate change around the world and here in Canada.

“We must face the facts. Warmer climates are compromising food and water supplies, and that’s hurting the livelihoods of millions. Rising temperatures are causing severe draughts in parts of the world,” he said.

He cited Cape Town, South Africa as an example, where resident face strict water rations in a bid to stave off Day Zero, the projected day when taps will run dry. Current estimates show that Day Zero will come in 2019.

“Here in Canada, it’s widely accepted that climate change played a big part in causing the catastrophic fire that ravaged Fort McMurray in 2016,” said Yussuff.

A drier-than-usual winter and record-high spring temperatures, coupled with high wind gusts caused the Fort McMurray fire to spread quickly. It displaced almost 90,000 people and many lost their homes. The fire took 15 months to fully extinguish.

Canada’s unions – along with organizations like the Green Economy Network, Blue Green Canada and Canada’s Building Trades – have long fought for a greener economy that puts workers and communities at the centre of any climate change policy.

“Progressive emission-reduction policies must centre around people and communities. Canada’s move to reduce its carbon emissions will impact employment. Adequate supports like re-training are necessary to a successful shift to a greener economy,” said CLC President Hassan Yussuff.

In February, the federal government announced the Terms of Reference for the Just Transition Task Force for Canadian Coal Power Workers and Communities. The Task Force’s mandate is to develop recommendations to influence Canada’s plans to phase-out coal power. Their first meeting is scheduled for this week.

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“Canada has seized an opportunity to set an international example by proving that ambitious economic restructuring policy to save our planet can be drafted with people at the its centre,” said CLC President Hassan Yussuff.

Against the backdrop of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change in Bonn, Germany, Environment and Climate Change Minister Catherine McKenna today pledged federal support for the Government of Alberta’s just transition plan for coal workers, including flexibility on Employment Insurance and working with Western Economic Diversification Canada to support the communities affected by the phasing out of coal power.

“Workers who have dedicated their lives to keeping the lights on can’t be expected to shoulder the burden of meeting Canada’s emission reduction targets,” said Alberta Federation of Labour President Gil McGowan, who was a part of the Canadian labour delegation to this year’s UN Climate Conference.

“The Alberta government took the lead by promising income support, retraining, and local economic development, but workers needed assurance that Ottawa was equally committed to their livelihoods and their communities. We now have that commitment,” he added.

Minister McKenna also announced her government’s intention to work directly with the Canadian Labour Congress to launch a task force that will develop a national framework on Just Transition for workers affected by the coal phase-out. The work of this task force is slated to begin early in the new year.

“Unions are committed to working in partnership with the governments of Canada and Alberta to meet Canada’s international climate change targets while making sure that no one is left behind,” said Yussuff.

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Canadian Labour Congress President, Hassan Yussuff, added that the rest of the world must continue to play an active role in fighting climate change and transitioning workers to good, green jobs.

“While President Trump’s decision on Paris represents a set-back to united action on climate change, it doesn’t change the fact that the rest of the world is moving forward. Canadian government, civil society and industry recognize the need to adapt to a low-carbon economy,” said Yussuff.

“Canada should continue to face the challenges of climate change head on, knowing that in the long run, this makes us more competitive within North America and globally,” Yussuff added.

To read the full ITUC statement, visit: https://www.ituc-csi.org/ituc-response-to-us-announcement

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Climate change is the single greatest challenge facing humanity today. Already, we are seeing immense pressure on the food supplies and livelihoods of workers around the world as a result of climate change.

Climate change threatens everyone, but it’s important to recognize that certain regions and communities are disproportionately affected by the consequences here and now. Indigenous peoples, racialized communities, and working-class Canadians are often the hardest hit by environmental disaster and the least able to transition when employment is lost due to industrial changes.

Workers live with the realities of climate change. They understand what’s at stake. Involving affected communities is essential if we want to reverse the threat of climate change, strengthen our economy and create secure, meaningful, full-time jobs. Unions are playing a leading role bringing workers together around these goals, through organizations like the Green Economy Network, Climate Action Network Canada, Blue Green Alliance, and more.

Unions, together with allies on this issue, are urging policymakers to act on our urgent climate change needs while promoting inclusive economic renewal.

This starts with establishing and meeting targets and timelines for green job creation through investments in clean energy, public transit, and building retrofits. As green jobs are created, government must work with communities, unions and business to develop streamlined transition plans for affected workers and ensure workers can access innovative social support, skills training, and apprenticeship programs.

At every step of the process we must meaningfully engage affected workers and communities. Not doing so risks division and alienation from the process, which puts our climate work in jeopardy. To succeed, workers’ input must be central to our vision of a better future for our environment and our economy.

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“Today’s carbon pricing announcement is an important and necessary step for our government to take towards meeting our Paris commitments, but we must ensure that Canadian workers are not left behind in the process,” said CLC President Hassan Yussuff. “For Canada to be a true leader in addressing climate change, we must transform our economy in a way that sustains good jobs and strong communities while protecting our environment.”

The government’s proposed price on carbon starts at a minimum of $10 a tonne in 2018 and rises by $10 each year to $50 a tonne in 2022. The new plan will establish a national framework within which provinces can adopt their own approach to achieving the federal floor price.

“Today’s announcement sets significant targets but the details of the plan will be vital,” said Yussuff. “The CLC is encouraged by strong federal leadership on pricing emissions, but is looking for guarantees that will ensure that the burden of adjusting to a green economy falls equitably on Canadians and is not borne disproportionately by low income households.”

Yussuff says that this program puts a necessary price on pollution in Canada, by ensuring that polluters pay their fair share towards reducing carbon emissions.

The CLC is calling on governments at every level to support the families and communities affected by carbon pricing and to invest in new jobs in renewable energy, public transportation and home and building retrofits.

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This year, the Canadian Labour Congress (CLC) is marking Earth Day (April 22) by renewing its call for a One Million Climate Jobs plan that would allow Canada to transition from fossil-fuel reliance to a sustainable, low-to-zero carbon economy while creating new, good jobs for Canadian workers.

“We need bold action now. It’s hard not to worry about our children and grandchildren if we don’t turn things around. With our One Million Climate Jobs plan, we show that we can do right by the next generations by creating good jobs now,” said CLC President, Hassan Yussuff.

Last December at the COP21 in Paris, the federal government worked cooperatively with provincial and municipal governments, and with labour, Indigenous and other civil society groups. This culminated in a commitment by Prime Minister Trudeau and Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Catherine McKenna, to begin the development of a pan-Canadian framework for climate action within 90 days of the Summit.

“The government has taken steps in the right direction since Paris, such as investing in public transit and green infrastructure, but we are still waiting for an ambitious and thorough national plan,” Yussuff said.

The One Million Climate Jobs plan, developed with the Green Economy network and endorsed by renowned environmental activist David Suzuki, calls for strategic investments in housing retrofits, renewable energy and sustainable transportation systems.

“Canadians need to rethink our manufacturing processes, the way we use and generate energy, and the ways we construct our buildings. We need to retool our factories, rethink the way we transport ourselves, move goods, use water, fuel industries, and heat our homes and businesses,” Yussuff said.

The CLC has committed to continue its approach of constructive collaboration with governments, environmental groups, Indigenous groups, and employers, working together to meet the pressing environmental, energy, economic and equity challenges of our times.

“Canadian unions will do our part to fight climate change and we will continue the work we started in Paris, pushing governments to ensure a just transition to a vibrant, carbon-free economy,” said Yussuff.

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The CLC – as part of the Green Economy Network (GEN) – helped develop the plan called “One Million Climate Jobs: A Challenge for Canada.”

“Climate change is a crisis we can’t ignore. Our plan can start the transition process now, so that affected workers and communities can look forward to the future instead of fearing it,” said CLC President Hassan Yussuff.

The GEN plan lays out a framework for job creation in various sectors that would help lift many Canadians out of unemployment or underemployment, while reducing Canada’s carbon emissions, and helping to move the country towards a low-to-zero carbon economy.

Renowned environmental activist, David Suzuki, supports the plan which includes strategic investments in housing retrofits, renewable energy and sustainable transportation systems.

“Workers know climate change is happening – in forestry, in fishing – they see it every day,” said Suzuki.

“This crisis is also an opportunity to transition to a more sustainable future,” Suzuki added.

At the COP21 climate change summit in Paris in December 2015, Prime Minister Trudeau promised that the government would produce a plan to steer the Canadian economy away from its reliance on fossil fuels to clean, renewable energy sources.

“We presented our plan at the summit and we hope the First Ministers and the Prime Minister will be inspired by it. We look forward to the government developing an ambitious roadmap to a sustainable economy,” said Yussuff.

To read the Common Platform of the Green Economy Network, click here.

For more information, please contact:

Chantal St-Denis, CLC Communications, cstdenis@clc-ctc.ca

Kerry Pither, National Director, CLC Communications, kpither@clc-ctc.ca

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The agreement mandates reviews of emission reduction plans starting in 2018, signalling a commitment by all countries to phase out fossil fuels and reduce emissions to zero by the end of this century, making renewable energy a global priority.

“While gaps exist for enforcement, financing, and the ratcheting-up of targets, there are now steps in place for future reviews that will address these issues,” said CLC president Hassan Yussuff.

Yussuff led a delegation of 35 Canadian trade union leaders to the Paris Summit that worked with unions from all around the world and liaised with environmental and human rights groups and other NGOs. Delegates attended daily briefings with the federal Environment minister and Canadian negotiators, and met with premiers, municipal leaders and with provincial and federal Environment ministers to push for firm commitments at all levels.

As well as campaigning for ambitious emissions reduction targets, the delegation advocated for human rights – including indigenous rights – and the right to a just transition for workers to be enshrined in the binding text of the agreement.

“We were disappointed that mention of these rights was relegated to the agreement’s non-binding preamble,” said Yussuff.

While the delegation is concerned that the final agreement does not go far enough, it is committed to collaborating with government and industry to continue the discussion about a just transition.

“We were pleased to see our government play a positive leadership role at this summit, and to see it working cooperatively and inclusively with provincial and municipal governments, and with environmental, labour, indigenous and other civil society groups,” said Yussuff.

The Canadian trade union delegation was pleased that the Canadian government promoted more ambitious global warming limits, progressive emission reduction commitments on five-year cycles and annual contributions to the global climate fund. In addition, unions were encouraged by the government’s promise to introduce a pan-Canadian framework for climate action within 90 days of the Summit.

The Canadian government also committed to its own emissions assessment by 2018, ahead of most other countries, and pledged $2.6 billion for the support of adaptation and emission reductions, prompting other wealthy countries to do the same.

“The collaborative approach we saw in Paris must continue as Canada moves forward to meet and realize its commitments. Governments at every level, as well as business, labour and civil society organizations all have a responsibility to work together and act urgently and decisively to protect this planet’s future,” said Yussuff.

“Canadian unions are committed to doing their part to fight climate change; and we will work with governments and employers to ensure a just transition to a carbon-free economy that supports displaced workers and creates millions of decent, green jobs,” he added.

The need for collaboration and a just transition strategy were key issues for COP21 union delegates. On December 3, the CLC partnered with the Climate Action Network and the Green Economy Network to co-host a forum on how Canada could fight climate change by creating one million climate jobs.

The forum provided an opportunity for federal, provincial and municipal politicians, and trade union and environmental leaders to discuss how to create new, green jobs and incorporate training and education for workers displaced by the transition to a low-to-zero carbon economy.

The CLC is a member of the Climate Action Network, whose statement in response to the COP21 text is available here.

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“We will work to ensure the negotiated text contains ambitious emission reduction targets and the ratcheting up mechanism that the previous Canadian government worked so hard to stonewall,” said CLC president Hassan Yussuff.

“We will also be making sure the negotiated text contains an explicit commitment to a Just Transition that ensures workers and communities get the support they need as high-carbon industries are transformed,” he added.

Earlier this year, unions, employers and governments worked together at the International Labour Organization to outline criteria for realizing a Just Transition. That criteria was formally adopted by the ILO’s governing body earlier this month.

The CLC is partnering with the Climate Action Network to host a forum at the summit on December 3, where federal government, provincial premiers and mayors will be invited to discuss Just Transition strategies that help meet targets, provide training, support workers and create good green jobs.

“We want to discuss how unions, employers and governments can collaborate on a Just Transition strategy that would support workers, create one million climate jobs in Canada in five years and reduce our greenhouse gas emissions by a third in a decade,” said Yussuff

“We hope that for the first time in a decade we can leave this summit feeling proud and optimistic about the role Canada will play in the crucial fight to reverse climate change and preserve our planet for future generations,” he added.

The CLC/CAN forum will be held from 5:30 to 7:15 p.m. on Thursday, December 3 in Salle (Room) 6, Espace “Générations Climat” at the Parc des Expositions in Le Bourget.

Contact:    Kerry Pither
Cell: 613-294-2203
Email: kpither@clc-ctc.ca

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I. Labour’s Urgent Need to Address the Climate Crisis

Canada and the world must respond forcefully and without delay to the climate crisis. Climate change is already having significant negative impacts on workers and their communities, in Canada and around the world. Heat waves, droughts, floods, rising sea levels, and biodiversity loss are causing the displacement of workers and indigenous peoples world-wide. 

In Canada, rising ocean temperatures and prolonged dry spells are affecting production and employment in aquaculture, mining, farming, forestry and even oil and gas extraction. The science is clear: if we continue to emit greenhouse gases at the current rate, the world risks further warming and lasting changes in the planet’s climate system, raising the likelihood of severe, widespread, and irreversible impacts on people, economies, and ecosystems. To have a reasonable chance of limiting global warming to a rise of 2°C this century and averting intolerable impacts on millions of people, the world community must restrict future carbon emissions to a finite amount, amounting to a “global carbon budget” for the planet. According to the UN’s Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, at the current pace of emissions, we risk going beyond the threshold that would get us over the 2°C mark in as little as 20 years.

Limiting the risks and negative impacts of climate change will therefore require immediate, significant and prolonged reductions in greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs). According the UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, in order to limit global warming to 2°C during this century, industrialized countries will have to reduce GHG emissions 40% to 70% below 2010 levels by 2050, and to near zero by 2100. G7 countries including Canada have committed to zero emissions by 2100, but it is possible to limit the risk of catastrophic warming and achieve near zero emissions by 2050. 

The primary cause of global warming is the burning of fossil fuels: coal, oil and gas.  To limit the destructive effects of global warming, we must reduce our emissions of heat-trapping greenhouse gases generated by fossil fuels. This will require:

• Dramatically expanding the use of renewable energy like wind and solar power to generate electricity, and transitioning to a clean energy economy that depends less and less on fossil fuels.
• Progressively limiting the amount of carbon that polluters are allowed to emit, and redesigning industries to be more efficient, burn less fossil fuels, and increasingly rely on renewable energy.
• Insulating and converting homes and buildings so that they are more energy efficient.
• Improve and expand low-emissions transportation and public transit. 

Climate change is simultaneously the greatest threat of our time, and the greatest opportunity of our era for economic growth and job creation. The CLC rejects the notion that there is a fundamental conflict between the economy and jobs and environmental sustainability. Both a green jobs strategy and a sustainable economic development strategy are needed, placing sectoral strategies and trade policies at the centre of the agenda on climate change.

Full employment can and must be a centrepiece of ecological transition; workers and their communities will be far better placed to succeed in this transition in the context of full employment, income support, and strong labour-market adjustment programs. Conversely, workers and their families will be reluctant to support transitional measures that offer them nothing more than job loss and falling incomes. 

Economic and ecological transformation is possible and achievable, but will require governments to commit to ambitious targets backed by substantial public investments. Other governments have already embarked on this transition. Denmark has committed to achieving 100% renewable energy in electricity and heat generation by 2035 and becoming 100% fossil-free by 2050. Scotland is aiming to reach 100% renewable energy in electricity generation by 2020. Iceland and Norway already generate 99% of their electricity from renewable sources.

Left to its own devices, the market will not undertake this transition fast enough and on the scale required to reduce the likelihood of catastrophic climate change. Nor will business-driven government policy, which since the beginning of the century has fueled the vast and rapid expansion of the oil sands, and led Canada back toward trade dependence on raw and semi-processed exports of resources. 
To break with our unsustainable ecological and economic course, we must develop and diversify our economy and expand, not reduce, public investment. 
Policymakers will not undertake the changes needed without pressure from the labour movement and our allies. The labour movement has always urged elected leaders to play a greater role in directing and shaping Canada’s industrial structure and economy – for the simple reason that workers and their communities have been most heavily affected by commodity booms and busts. A phased-in and fair transition away from the fossil-fuel economy carries the potential to give workers and their communities greater economic stability and sustainability.  The CLC will strongly advocate for compensation, retraining, re-employment and relocation for affected workers and their communities, and demands Just Transition commitments to support those workers who risk being displaced by climate change or by climate change policies and mitigation measures.  

In December 2015, in Paris, Canada must commit to ambitious, achievable science-based targets for significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Canada’s current Intended Nationally Determined Contribution (INDC) submitted to the COP 21 meetings commits Canada to reducing GHG emissions by 30% below 2005 levels by 2030. However, this is below what Canada had already pledged in 2009 which would have meant a reduction of 38% below 2005 levels in 2030. The current INDC commitment of a 30% reduction from 2005 levels by 2030 leaves Canada’s emissions-reduction trajectory off-track, weaker than the current US commitments, and even weaker than it appears, since it relies on purchasing emissions reductions from other countries rather than solely domestic reductions. The CLC calls on Canada to commit to a legally binding target to cut our domestic carbon pollution by 17% below 2005 levels by 2020 and 38% by 2030, returning it to the trajectory of achieving 80% reductions by 2050.

II. Green Sectoral Strategies

A program of economic diversification and sustainability will require green sectoral economic strategies aimed at developing secondary and value-added industries. With labour participation, sectoral development councils in the automotive, aerospace, rail transportation, forestry and agriculture industries could identify the needs and opportunities involved in reducing emissions and expanding production and employment. For instance, automotive assembly and parts manufacturing in Canada could be re-tooled to support production of hybrids, electric passenger cars, fuel-cell vehicles, and other environmentally-friendly vehicle technologies and components, with the goal of a 5% market penetration of electric vehicles by 2020. A sustainable forestry strategy would engage workers in conservation and producing bio-mass for bio-energy in the short-term, while expanding and improving forest carbon stocks over the long-term. Fostering sustainable and resilient agriculture could promote soil carbon sequestration, energy conservation, and reduced synthetic fertilizer use in the local production of high-quality food.
The federal government should create and backstop a Canadian Green Development Bank to finance the ambitious investment programs identified by sectoral councils. Blanket corporate tax cuts should be reversed and replaced by incentives for new investment in machinery and equipment, research and development, and work reorganization and training.

Domestic procurement of green technologies will create jobs in the manufacturing sector, while paving the way for new technological development in Canada. Green job creation programs should be combined with skills training and jobs development and the increased certification of contractors to support qualified certified trades in a broad range of occupations. A national green skills development initiative is important both to prepare Canada’s workforce for the skill requirements inherent in green jobs, and to ensure that green industries and workplaces do not face a shortage of adequately trained workers. International trade and investment agreements must accommodate sectoral development, domestic procurement and green job creation, or be renegotiated to facilitate these objectives.

III. Renewal and Expansion of Public Transit Infrastructure

Expanded investment in mass transit infrastructure is necessary in all major urban centres and provides substantial opportunities for economic growth and job creation. Under the umbrella of a national transit strategy, all levels of government will identify necessary municipal public transit infrastructure investments and opportunities for reducing carbon emissions. Investment in new rail infrastructure, specifically inter-city, high-speed rail or monorail connecting Windsor to Quebec City, Vancouver to White Rock and Seattle, and Edmonton to Calgary will reduce emissions from trucks, cars and aviation, create jobs, improve air quality, and encourage expanded business travel and tourism. Reducing our greenhouse gas emissions will be backed by strong domestic procurement rules in order to both reduce GHG emissions and generate green industry and jobs in Canada.

IV. Development of Renewable Energy Sources and Energy Efficiency Improvements

Increased public investment in sustainable energy, combined with public regulation of expanding renewable energy sources, will secure our sustainable energy future while promoting economic growth and job creation. Canada lags behind the rest of the world on the use of renewable energy, yet it has more renewable energy resources than most countries. Investment in the research, development, and promotion of clean and sustainable renewable energy will create jobs and reduce Canada’s reliance upon fossil fuel and especially coal-fired power generation. 

Energy efficiency can be increased in existing residential, commercial and institutional buildings through retrofits using qualified, certified and unionized workers. Large scale retrofit programs can yield significant economic growth and job creation; they are the least expensive way to reduce emissions, and create the greatest number of jobs per dollar invested.  In Germany, retrofits of 300,000 homes and apartments each year have resulted in the creation of hundreds of thousands of jobs. Additional energy efficiency opportunities exist with respect to furnaces, water heaters, air conditioners, household appliances, and lighting.  In Canada, a $1.1 billion dollar homes and buildings retrofit program could be designed to leverage $50 billion dollars in private expenditures, enough to create one million person job years of employment.  

V. A National Carbon Pricing System

The Canadian labour movement supports a national cap and trade carbon-pricing system, which will serve to set a maximum emission level, in line with the overall national targets. In many cases, emission reduction activities would result in modernizing plants and improving workers’ health and safety.  

The CLC supports the approach of setting emissions allowances for different industries based on an industry’s ability to reduce their carbon emissions in a feasible but ambitious time frame. The CLC supports increasing the share of allowances auctioned over time, and reducing the provision of free allowances, in order to gradually transition to an emissions trading regime. We strongly support tight limits on the share of an entity’s total compliance obligation during any one period that can be met through the use of offsets.

Such a system would create financial incentives to reduce emissions and generate federal revenue for further reductions. In our view, proceeds from the cap-and-trade scheme should be recycled into industrial adjustment supports and just transition measures for affected workers and communities, as well as initiatives which further reduce greenhouse gas emissions. 

If Canada is to price carbon through a cap and trade system, a separate carbon-pricing scheme must be developed for imports. This carbon-pricing system would ensure that off-shore producers, particularly transnational corporations, pay the price of the carbon content in the goods they ship to us.

VI. Just Transition

Workers who are displaced or experience wage cuts due to structural economic changes which benefit society as a whole must be compensated, as should families and communities that suffer a negative impact from such changes. Carbon reduction policies must be combined with progressive tax and expenditure policies and the establishment of Just Transition funds.  These funds should be governed by an independent Just Transition board with labour representation. Across Canada, the funds would be allocated in support of retraining workers who lose their jobs due to climate change policies, and to compensate workers for any income losses. Communities should also be eligible for support, and provinces and territories must also be urged to integrate Just Transition funds into their own climate change plans. 

Public education, training policy, and apprenticeship programs will need to be directed strongly toward participation in a low-carbon economy. Income assistance and training funds available through the Employment Insurance program will also help workers transition to new industries and occupations. Above all, this transition must proceed in consultation with workers and unions in the policy development process.  Policies must be phased-in gradually according to a transparent schedule, so that workers and employers alike have the confidence, time and support needed to adjust. 

VII. Global Solidarity

Those who contributed least to climate change are being hit first and hardest, including indigenous populations, people facing poverty, and those in the low-income countries of the global South. The labour movement stands in solidarity with First Nations and front-line communities in Canada who are already experiencing the effects of climate change. 

With different historical responsibilities for climate change and capacities to respond, the effort of emissions reduction should be shared. The CLC joins the global trade union movement in advocating for fair sharing of the cost associated with emissions reduction, so that the poorest do not carry the heaviest burden. Trade unions from developed and developing countries agree on the importance of securing a Just Transition for all workers and communities, providing decent work opportunities in a new, climate-sound economy. 

Unions have called for climate financing, both in terms of adaptation support for developing countries, and to support emissions reductions and changing energy-intensive sectors. Canada and other developed countries have agreed to raise US$100 billion by 2020 for climate-change mitigation and adaptation, partly through the Green Climate Fund. 
Canada should also commit to substantial public finance that would support additional, verifiable emissions reductions from investments in developing countries. The CLC calls on Canada to commit $400 million annually to the Green Climate Fund, and recognize the legitimacy of developing country calls for additional funding, not through the Green Climate Fund, for losses and damage resulting from climate change. We urge Canada to make these new and additional resources available as grants, not loans; adding further to the debt burden of vulnerable countries is counterproductive to the goals of advancing sustainable development and climate protection. 

VIII. Moving Beyond COP 20

Canada and the world must move beyond the unsatisfactory commitments won at the COP 20 in Lima and ensure a fair, feasible but ambitious agreement in Paris containing a ratifiable, legally-binding core component. The core legal agreement should address all key areas mentioned in the Durban (COP 17) mandate, as well as provisions essential to implementation: mitigation, adaptation, finance, technology development and transfer, transparency of action and support, capacity-building, and compliance.  It is important that the Paris agreement also include provisions on human rights and loss and damage from climate change. 

Specifically, the CLC calls on Canada to ensure that any agreement contains ratcheting mechanisms to support upward revision of commitments for both GHG emissions reduction and finance. To permit regular review (and if necessary, revision), the agreement should require or encourage countries to incorporate a number of commitments on a short (e.g. 5-year) time frame. 

Willing groups of states should simultaneously be encouraged to cooperate on initiatives to decarbonize specific sectors as a means of complementing any broad agreement achieved in Paris.  Examples could include a medium-term goal of phasing out electricity-sector emissions, phasing out coal, and scaling up zero-carbon energy innovation.

There should be processes for transparent measurement, accounting and reporting, as well as information sharing, verification and review.  Steps should be taken to simplify the expansion of the agreement by allowing nations to join through rapid and uncomplicated accession to the agreement.

Lastly, Ministers attending the Paris negotiations should commit to negotiating a global climate finance roadmap to encourage the scale-up of international support for finance, technology and capacity-building through to 2020.

IX. Conclusion

Canada has an important contribution to make to the COP 21 negotiations in Paris and to achieving an agreement that sets the world on the path to a sustainable planetary climate. On behalf of its 3.3 million members, the Canadian Labour Congress urges the government of Canada to seize this opportunity and press for an ambitious, realistic, and just agreement to reduce GHG emissions. Significant as the costs of moving to a less carbon-intensive economy are, the costs of inaction on climate change are far greater. Not just the economic well-being of current and future workers hang in the balance, but the health, welfare, safety and security of our families and communities as well. We have a world to win.

The post CLC adopts statement seeking meaningful commitments ahead of UN Climate Change Summit appeared first on Canadian Labour Congress.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Post-1990 – Emissions Rise, Kyoto Falls in North America
3. Copenhagen and beyond – U.S. on track to meet 4% below 1990; Canada way off course to meet 7% over 1990
4. U.S. Emissions Reductions at the Federal Level – the President Barack Obama Plan
5. Canada’s Emission Reduction at the Federal Level – No Plan
6. Sector by Sector Emissions
7. Power Sector Greenhouse Gas Emissions
8. The Provincial and State Story
9. Job Implications
10. International Commitments Moving Forward to COP 21 in Paris – INDC
11. Ten Lessons

Introduction

At the 1992 Rio Earth Summit, countries agreed to stabilize carbon pollution by keeping it to 1990 levels. That was 25 years ago. 

While a handful of developed countries (including Denmark, Sweden, and the United Kingdom) have positioned themselves as climate leaders, the U.S. – a long climate-change laggard – has, in recent years, shown leadership on climate change. For instance, in November 2014, U.S. President Barack Obama and President Xi Jinping of China announced a joint U.S.-China climate change commitment where the U.S. would cut greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 26 to 28%, and China would ensure carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions peak by 2030, while ensuring 20% of all energy is provided by renewable sources by 2030. This and many other recent initiatives have meant that, quite simply, the U.S. has been able to successfully reduce their national greenhouse gas emissions while Canada’s have continued to grow. Compared to the U.S., who will most likely meet their 2020 “Copenhagen target”, Canada will miss its 2020 and 2030 pledges by a wide margin. While most of the world is actually trying to deal with climate change, are there lessons that long-time climate laggard, Canada, can learn from our neighbour to the south?

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Post-1990 – Emissions Rise, Kyoto Falls in North America

Urgent action is needed as evidenced by recent reports of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). However, both Canada and the United States have not carried their weight on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, notably carbon dioxide (CO2) pollution.

Despite global goals of stabilizing carbon pollution to 1990 levels, average annual global CO2 emissions increased by 52% from 1992 to 2012 , and between 2012 and 2013, they increased more than any other year since 1984 . In January 2015, the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration reported that “globally averaged temperature over land and ocean surfaces for 2014 was the highest among all years since record keeping began in 1880.”  In Canada, the average temperature increased by 1.6°C over the past 66 years.  

Since 1990 (the baseline for the Kyoto Protocol), both the United States and Canada have seen emissions grow, while Europe has successfully reduced emissions from the 1990 baseline.

The Kyoto Protocol had an achievable target for Canada of 6% below 1990 levels by 2012. The United States’ Kyoto target was 5% below 1990 levels by 2012. 

Unfortunately, the U.S. never ratified Kyoto, and Canada pulled out of the Kyoto protocol in December of 2011. Despite Europe’s reductions in emissions from the 1990 baseline (Figure1), both Canada and the U.S. are currently nowhere near the level of emissions reductions envisioned by the Kyoto Protocol. Nevertheless, despite minimal action until 2005 and a significant drop in 2008 due to the contracting global economy (Figure 2), the U.S. has been significantly more successful in reducing greenhouse gas emissions than Canada. 

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Figure 1 – Canada, U.S. and EU – Past and Projected Emissions 1990 to 2030

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Copenhagen and beyond – U.S. on track to meet 4% below 1990; Canada way off course to meet 7% over 1990

In 2009, seventeen years after the Rio Earth Summit of 1992, the Copenhagen Accord established new greenhouse gas emission reduction targets; and the U.S., as a whole, began to actually reduce emissions. Currently, it looks as though the U.S. is on track to meet their Copenhagen pledge of 17% reductions in emissions from the 2005 level by the year 2020 (equivalent to approximately 4% below 1990 levels). Rather than a planned shift away from fossil fuels however, much of the greenhouse gas emissions reductions in the U.S. came as a product of a contracting economy following the 2008 economic collapse, although emissions reductions have been increasing in recent years.

Canada made the exact same pledge as the U.S. – a 17% reduction from 2005 levels by 1990 (equivalent to a 7% increase in emissions from 1990 level) by the year 2020. Canada will not meet this target, primarily although not exclusively due to rapidly increasing emissions in the tar sands which are not being offset by other deep reductions. For instance, exactly when Canada should have been reducing emissions between 1990 and 2011, emissions from Canada’s tar sands grew by 267%, despite a 26% reported decrease in per-barrel emissions. 

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Figure 2 – Change in Greenhouse Gas Emissions from a 1990 level

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U.S. Emissions Reductions at the Federal Level – the President Barack Obama Plan

A 2007 U.S. Supreme Court decision to declare carbon dioxide a pollutant paved the way for the Environmental Protection Agency to regulate carbon. However, it is only after the 2009 election of Barack Obama that we start to see overall national emissions begin to decline. In June of 2014, President Obama announced the U.S. plan to reduce emissions from existing power plants – the lynchpin of President Obama’s nationwide Climate Action Plan. This flagship policy targets more than 1,000 of the country’s most highly polluting power plants. With 39% of U.S.-wide electricity generation from coal, the electricity sector accounts for roughly a third of all U.S. greenhouse gases.

The U.S. plan sets state-by-state targets for reducing GHG emission per unit of electricity, rather than simply shutting down coal-fired power generation. The flexibility means that all states must take action and encourages utilities to take advantage of all the options available across the electricity system, including on- and off-site efficiency improvements and fuel-switching. This means the impact is much more immediate and the first reductions will be the most economical reductions. This plan was updated in July of 2015, and states must now source 28% (up from 22%) of their power from renewables by 2030.

Under the initiative, the U.S. will reduce carbon emissions by 32% on 2005 levels by 2030, lining up with the offer it made as part of this year’s international climate negotiations taking place in Paris.

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Canada’s Emission Reduction at the Federal Level – No Plan

Canada lacks any “flagship legislation” for climate despite being in the world’s top 20 emitters. In fact outside of provincial action, there has been little if any federal leadership on climate change. 

In fact, federal government representatives in Canada are known to create the illusion of climate action, when there is little being done at the federal level. For instance, the former Minister of the Environment, Leona Aglukkaq claimed the Federal Government was “implementing a responsible sector-to-sector regulatory approach”; however, the regulations supposedly being “implemented” weren't tabled. Similarly in a December 2014 interview, former Prime Minister Stephen Harper stated that Canadian emissions were falling. “Other countries’ emissions for the most part are going up. World emissions are going up. Canada’s have not been going up.” This was simply not true. Although Canadian emissions had dropped since 2008 because of the recession, the former Federal Government’s own reports did not indicate emissions reductions; Canada’s emissions will be 22% higher than its Copenhagen target of reducing greenhouse gases by 17% below their 2005 levels by 2020.

It must however be noted that Canada has taken some regulatory steps for coal-fired power generation, although the actions pale in comparison to the U.S. action on coal-fired electricity generation. At the federal level, Canada has prevented any new coal-fired generating stations from being built; however, there is no market demand for new coal. All existing coal-fired plants are permitted to operate unabated until they close. Once they reach their end-of-life in about 45 to 50 years (2060 to 2070), the Canadian coal plants will have to adhere to the regulations. Whereas in the U.S., the legislation requires coal-fired power plants to reduce emissions from 2020 to 2030, approximately 40 years earlier. 

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Sector by Sector Emissions

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Figure 3 – Sector by Sector Emissions

Canada has repeatedly announced a sector-by-sector regulatory approach to greenhouse gas emissions. Unfortunately, despite ten years in government, the former Conservative government had only regulated a portion of the greenhouse gas emissions in the transportation sector and it was to align with U.S. standards. 

The Passenger Automobile and Light Truck Greenhouse Gas Emission Regulations establish mandatory GHG emission standards for new vehicles of the 2011 and later model years, but that single piece of regulatory harmonization is the only tangible action the Harper government has taken.

The former Conservative government had announced forthcoming regulations in the oil and gas sector for five years, but the regulations have yet to be tabled or enacted. Similarly, the former Conservative government repeatedly delayed federal rules addressing power plants that use natural gas.

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Power Sector Greenhouse Gas Emissions

All changes show relative to Business as Usual (BAU), based on estimates from EPA and Environment Canada. U.S. estimates are based on EPA regulatory analysis for Option 1 – State Implementation case assuming a 22% reduction. Canadian estimates are based on Environment Canada analysis for final federal coal power regulations.

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The Provincial and State Story

While U.S. national emissions have generally been trending downward as lower-priced natural gas has displaced coal in power production, steeper reductions require mandatory limits on power plant emissions, as President Obama’s administration has proposed. But implementation of the administration’s Clean Power Plan will fall largely to the states.

Meanwhile in Canada, national emissions are rising. Further, if development of the tar sands continues as projected, the emissions will continue to grow and could even double in a decade. The inadequate Intended Nationally-Determined Contribution announced by Canada relies heavily on the action of subnational governments and policies. While some Canadian provinces are entirely dependent on hydro electricity generation (i.e. Manitoba, Quebec), Ontario relies most heavily on nuclear power for electricity generation. Only a few provinces still use coal, though it continues to be a substantial energy source for landlocked Alberta and Saskatchewan, with Alberta burning more coal than all other provinces combined. Nova Scotia is working to reduce its reliance on coal-fired plants, while Ontario shut down all coal-fired generation.

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Figure 4 – Per-capita emissions by province, excluding Atlantic Canada

This has a huge impact on the potential reductions of greenhouse gas emission. For instance, although Alberta has much higher per capita emissions than Ontario, Alberta also has more room to reduce emissions. Ontario has shut down its coal plants and ramped up renewables and other low-carbon sources of electricity. Similarly, Quebec and B.C. have made strides in reducing emissions, while Alberta and Saskatchewan’s emissions have grown at an alarming rate (primarily due to the growth of the tar sands). However, even today, the tar sands are not the greatest source of emissions in Alberta. In fact, coal-fired electricity generation is the single largest source of emissions, providing more than 60% of electricity generation in Alberta.

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Figure 5 – Change in Provincial GHGs since 2005, excluding Atlantic Canada

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Job Implications

The U.S. employment market was dreadful in 2010, but has improved steadily. Since then, it has become a job creating machine, while Canada sputters. Although there are a myriad of factors at play, there have been positive job implications associated with the U.S. taking meaningful action on climate change.

Under President Barack Obama, the U.S. supports clean energy research and development, deploys the technology in the U.S. and then supports the market opportunities for the technology globally. Fundamentally, the United States sees clean energy as an economic opportunity as much as an environmental solution.

The U.S. has given clear signals to business, courted them and encouraged them to make commitments independent of the state-by-state targets. These efforts have led to ground-breaking commitments from thirteen multinationals including General Motors, Microsoft, Apple, and Coca-Cola when they signed the American Business Act on Climate Pledge, which committed a collective USD$140 billion to climate and clean energy action. The firms pledged to cut carbon and ramp up renewables.

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International Commitments Moving Forward to COP 21 in Paris – INDC

Each developed country made a promise to provide their Intended Nationally Determined Contribution to greenhouse gas emission reductions, as well as global climate finance by the first quarter of 2015 (March 31st, 2015). Canada submitted its Intended Nationally Determined Contribution (INDC) communicating its economy-wide target to reduce greenhouse gas emission by 30% below 2005 levels by 2030. This is a completely inadequate contribution and reflects Canada’s refusal to do its fair share of greenhouse gas reductions or pull its weight. At least the target is better than Canada’s Copenhagen target. Canada’s INDC commitment is equivalent to a reduction of 2% below 1990 industrial greenhouse gas emissions. 

On the other hand, the U.S. does not have a sufficient target. Instead, it has a medium target, which is significantly better than Canada’s inadequate target. The U.S. submitted their INDC on time, unlike Canada, and promised to reduce emissions by 26 to 28% below 2005 targets by 2025. According to Carbon Tracker, the “Medium” rating indicates that the U.S. climate plans are at the least ambitious, and are at the end of what would be a fair contribution. The U.S. reduction target could therefore be strengthened to reflect the United States’ high capability and responsibility. The U.S. INDC commitment is equivalent to a reduction of 14 to 17% below 1990 levels by 2025 – five years before Canada reduces by 2% from 1990 levels. 

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Ten Lessons

1. Try to do something, as the U.S. has done – rather than do as little as possible, as the Harper Government has done.
2. Develop “flagship” policies, as the U.S. has done.
3. Set emissions reduction targets for every province and territory.
4. Allow for flexibility so subnational governments (provinces, cities and territories) can prioritize the most economical reductions first.
5. Rather than make commitments with no plan to follow through on them, make international emissions reductions commitments and then have a domestic carbon budget and a plan which lines up to meet those targets, as the U.S. has done. 
6. Make clear signals to business, as the U.S. has done, so they can plan and invest strategically for today and tomorrow; and encourage businesses to make their commitments to cut carbon and ramp up renewables.
7. Create a comprehensive policy framework to support cleantech research and development, as the U.S. has done. Although Ontario, Quebec, and British Columbia all support cleantech R&D, there is no national comprehensive policy framework to support these homegrown cleantech industries and many companies struggle to get their innovations to market.
8. Recognize, as the U.S. has done, that transitioning to a green economy is an opportunity to create good green jobs
9. Take responsibility to do our fair share of emission reductions as part of the global community. 
10. Vote and elect a national leader who is committed to taking action on climate change.

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The post CLC report: reducing greenhouse gas emissions in Canada appeared first on Canadian Labour Congress.

Dear Prime Minister:

As per the agreement of the United Nations Conference of the Parties in Lima in December 2014, Canada is expected to announce in March 2015 its Intended Nationally Determined Contributions (INDCs) to global efforts to reduce greenhouse gases. The timeline is intended to support the ongoing climate negotiations and the successful conclusion of a new international climate agreement in Paris in December 2015.

We urge Canada to commit to an ambitious national greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction target for the next 10 years (by 2025) that supports industry and economic stakeholders to transition to a very low carbon economy within 35 years (by 2050). The federal government, working with provinces and territories, should commit to a comprehensive INDC that includes the following:

• A fair-share contribution to emissions reductions. We believe that Canada’s INDC must include a legally binding commitment to cut our domestic carbon pollution in Canada by at least one third within the next 10 years (equivalent to 37% below 2005 levels by 2025). Canada should also commit to substantial public finance that would lever additional, verifiable emissions reductions from investments in climate change mitigation in developing countries.

• A fair-share contribution to climate finance by 2020. We call on Canada to commit 0.2% of GDP ($4 Billion) to publicly funded climate finance divided equally between mitigation and adaptation projects. We urge Canada to make these new and additional resources available to United Nations institutions such as the Green Climate Fund to be disbursed as grants, not loans, in order to prevent further growth in the debt burden of developing countries.

• Public investment in infrastructure. The International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) October 2014 World Economic Outlook recommends long-term public investments in infrastructure to generate employment, boost economic growth, raise longer-term productivity growth rates, and increase long-run growth potential. Public investments in low-carbon, climate-resilient infrastructure (such as mass transit and green energy projects) will also slow projected emissions growth.

• A sectoral development policy to promote green and value-added production in key sectors. Targeted investments in high value-added production along with green jobs and green skills initiatives will enhance innovation and labour productivity. This will require active government strategies on trade, sectoral development, and domestic procurement measures.

• Investment in skills training and jobs development. In the context of low oil prices and a struggling manufacturing sector, the CLC also urges the federal government to take steps to foster a training and skills development culture in Canadian workplaces. We need better collaboration between all skills development stakeholders, more and better labour market information and planning, incentives for employers to invest in training, and support for employee training and qualification.

• Updated targets and plans every five years to reach the long-term goal of near zero greenhouse gas emissions based on the phasing in of a clean energy system. Commitment periods of five years allow for regular updating and review, with course corrections where required. Canada needs transparent, measurable and verifiable commitments to GHG reductions.

• A national climate plan to meet domestically legislated targets that complement and enhance provincial and territorial plans. The plans should:

  • coordinate provincial approaches and establish a floor price for carbon that applies across the country.

  • build on provincial/territorial efforts to develop a Canadian Energy Strategy by establishing positive national objectives for renewable energy generation (wind, solar, biomass, small-scale hydro), energy efficiency (retrofitting homes and buildings), and low or zero-emissions vehicles. These objectives should be developed in conjunction with a national training agenda to ensure apprenticeships and skilled trades development for retrofitting, as well as labour-market adjustment and income support measures to help displaced workers retrain, relocate, and accomplish a rapid, smooth and fair transition from fossil-fuel intensive industries to green economy industries. They should also be supported by accelerated research and development in emerging renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies.

  • establish stringent energy and efficiency and conservation improvement standards for all new homes and buildings, appliances, equipment and vehicles.

  • phase out subsidies to the oil, gas and gold sector that encourage exploration, development, refining, and export of these sources of energy and redirect those subsidies toward low-impact renewable energy generation, energy efficiency and conservation. This step must be accompanied by comprehensive support for worker

  • adjustment, retraining, and income maintenance to facilitate a just transition to a low-carbon economy.

  • stimulate sustainable transportation by investing in accessible urban and intercity public transit, active transportation like cycling and walking, discourage single-occupancy automobile use, and shift freight movement from road to rail.

Prime Minister, a significant increase in global average temperature will lead to widespread, harmful global impacts over the coming century, such the rapid deterioration of eco-systems, large-scale losses of biodiversity, rising sea levels, significant increases in extreme weather events, and trillions of dollars in economic losses. At the same time, the opportunities presented by the urgent need for economic adjustment are great. We are confident that the expanded investment required to achieve a just and orderly transition to a sustainable economy will stimulate economic growth and job creation, lift the long-run competitiveness and growth potential of the Canadian economy, and improve the quality of life for Canadians well into the future.

We look forward to working with you to advance effective climate protection efforts across Canada and accelerate the transition to a clean energy system. I would welcome a meeting with you and your staff to explore options with respect to Canada’s domestic contribution to the United Nations negotiations on climate protection. Canada has an important contribution to make to the Paris negotiations to achieve an agreement that sets the world on the path to climate stability and protection

The post Letter to former Prime Minister Harper on just transition appeared first on Canadian Labour Congress.

The 2030 Agenda includes 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and 169 targets that build on the UN Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), which expire at the end of 2015.

With goals and targets to end poverty, reduce inequality, fight climate change, ensure access to education, and promote peace and justice, the plan envisions the positive ways we can work together to transform our world by 2030.

Trade unions welcome the new framework for sustainable development and are particularly committed to realizing goals and targets to: 

• End poverty in all its forms everywhere (Goal 1), with unions particularly advocating enhanced social protections to help achieve this;
• End hunger, achieve food security and improved nutrition, and promote sustainable agriculture (Goal 2);
• Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all (Goal 4);
• Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls (Goal 5), with a particular focus on providing public services, infrastructure and social protection policies and on supporting women’s leadership;
• Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all (Goal 7);
• Promote sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth; full and productive employment; and decent work for all (Goal 8);
• Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization, and foster innovation (Goal 9);
• Reduce inequality within and among countries (Goal 10), with a focus on fiscal, wage, and social protection policies;
• Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts (Goal 13); and
• Promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, provide access to justice for all and build effective, accountable and inclusive institutions at all levels (Goal 16).

The Canadian Labour Congress and the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) commends states on signing onto this ambitious set of goals and targets. However, labour organizations have also pointed out flaws in the goals’ supporting framework and the processes for follow-up, review and accountability.

In terms of the goals’ framework, labour bodies are asking for signatory nations to commit to implement the goals through financing, progressive public policy, and a sound accountability framework. In addition, the goals’ follow-up and review process is essentially voluntary, meaning that nations risk little if they fail to make efforts to implement the goals. The CLC and ITUC believe the follow-up process could be strengthened through binding commitments based on existing international standards.

Representing the labour movement at the UN Summit, Susan Hopgood, president of Education International, stated: “As trade unions, we are committed to play our part. We need government to step up and fulfil their obligations. Deeds not words.”

Internationally, ITUC’s Trade Union Trade Development Cooperation Network (TUDCN) will push for high standards during the process leading up to and including the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals.

During the recent federal election campaign, the Liberal party confirmed that a Liberal government would commit to the SDGs and to developing a comprehensive plan to make measurable progress towards achieving these goals, both at home and abroad.

The CLC, alongside civil society organization and advocacy groups such as the Canadian Council for International Cooperation (CCIC) and the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM), is committed to playing its part, while holding the new Liberal government accountable to their commitments. 

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In the coming federal election, we will be asking the parties what they will be doing to create green jobs for thousands of Canadians and to join the rest of the world in committing to address climate change.

Canada ranks 58th out of 61 developed countries for climate change performance according to an annual report by Germanwatch. The only developed countries with a worse record than Canada are Kazakhstan (59th), Iran (60th) and Saudi Arabia (61st). China ranks 46th while the United States ranks 43rd.

“Any investment in green industry creates more than seven times the jobs than the same investment in the fossil fuel extraction industry,” says Donald Lafleur, CLC Executive Vice-President.

In April, we will be part of a Climate Change Week of Action — a week that will focus on Canada’s climate change record. We will be reaching out to members of parliament to support the NDP climate change bill; promoting the creation of one million climate jobs in renewable energy, public transit and high speed rail; and continuing to make homes and buildings more energy efficient.

The labour movement is working to make the environment healthier and safer for everyone. We can make every day Earth Day by greening our existing jobs and making choices that are better for the environment, both at home and at work. This year we have an opportunity to elect a new government that will commit to addressing climate change and investing in green jobs.

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Every December there is a global climate change conference. This year, November marks the opening of the 21st annual Conference of the Parties (COP 21) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). One year from now, all the countries of the world will make commitments and will sign a global climate change agreement at COP 210. In observation of this conference, we are proposing to take some concrete steps to make some changes, here’s how:

The CLC is working with our affiliated unions to green their existing jobs as the world transitions to a low carbon future. Meanwhile through the CLC’s advocacy and public policy work we have a plan to create One Million Climate jobs and are working with key organizations to ensure skills training and jobs development for the jobs of tomorrow in key sectors like public transportation, renewable energy and house retrofitting.

Working with Global Allies – The CLC is working with Climate Action Network – Reseau Action Climat, the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) and Trade Unions for Energy Democracy (TUED) to collectively push for a fair, ambitious and legally binding global deal in Paris, which works for workers.

Electing a Progressive Government in 2015 – the CLC is working to elect a more progressive government that will take action with other leading countries such as Denmark, United Kingdom and Sweden.  A government that values the environment and will make serious commitments to climate change in Canada.  Canada currently ranks #58 on a list of 61countries.  We are right at the bottom with offenders such as Iran, Saudi Arabia and Kazahkastan.

Ensuring that climate change action, works for workers – Canadians need good local jobs, skills training and jobs development and the CLC is working to ensure that labour’s priorities are front and centre in the push for climate action.

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“The federal government has the opportunity right now to invest in a better future for all Canadians. Ottawa’s single-minded obsession with austerity and mantra that the labour market will eventually recover is simply prolonging the economic hardship of working Canadians. But to turn this ship around, we need to reinvest in job creation and skills training,” he said.

The employment picture to close out 2014 was reflective of much of the rest of the year. Statistics Canada’s release of its Labour Force Survey for December 2014 showed there were just over 1.27 million unemployed Canadians in December, and the overall unemployment remained at 6.6%.

“The government’s laissez-faire attitude in 2014 now leaves us lagging behind the American economic and job market recovery, demonstrating once again that Canada needs a new approach to boosting job growth. Quite simply there needs to be a shift in priorities. New spending on infrastructure, reversing federal job cuts, investing in social programs – these are the elements of a sustained job growth strategy,” he added.

“The shake-out coming in the oil and gas sector should serve as a wake-up call to this complacent government,” warned Yussuff.  But he also stressed the opportunities present in the Canadian dollar’s return to Earth and the prospects for a revitalized manufacturing sector.

Quick Analysis from CLC Senior Economist Angella MacEwen

Overall job growth and quality were disappointing in 2014. The number of jobs grew by only 1%, or 186,000 – far below the population growth of 380,000. The average annual employment rate for 2014 fell compared to 2013, and remains well below 2008 levels. The total actual hours worked in 2014 was lower than 2013, despite the increase in the number of positions. Since 2008, the total actual hours worked has grown at only half the rate of total job growth.

Compared to last December there was little change in employment in the natural resources sector, while employment in construction was up by 68,000 and employment in manufacturing was down by just over 11,000. Accommodation and food services employment fell compared to November, but was still up by 38,000 compared to last December. Also notable, the professional, scientific, and technical services sector lost 35,000 jobs compared to last December.

Compared to last December both Nova Scotia and Ontario saw their unemployment rate fall by nearly a full percentage point. In Nova Scotia this was completely due to a fall in labour force participation, and while Ontario added 80,000 jobs, their participation rate fell from 61.7% to 61%, indicating deeper labour market weakness in both provinces.

While it is too early to see the fallout from falling oil prices, there will likely be some impact across the country as industries adapt.

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World leaders were invited by United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-moon to New York to attend a Climate Summit on September 23rd. The one-day event will serve to launch international climate negotiations. The Heads of State will meet to discuss actions taken by their countries in order to phase-out fossil-fuel-based economies and to promote the finalization of a new international treaty in Paris in 2015. Prime Minister Stephen Harper will not attend the Summit. It is sad to say but we believe that this is a good thing. Political leaders attending the event want to work towards climate protection. Since Prime Minister Harper shows no interest in such an initiative, it is best that he stay home.

All Canadians are dismayed by the present situation. We can be part of the solution. Considering the importance of what is at stake, we would have wanted the Prime Minister to not only attend the Summit but also lead the way on the issue.

If we want to change the situation, we must all encourage politicians at all levels of government – municipal, provincial and federal – to make sure that climate protection becomes a priority.

Canada must sign the international climate agreement with specific targets in order to show the whole world that the problem is serious and that we are doing our part to solve it. Canada must at least announce, during the next United Nations bargaining sessions to be held in Lima, Peru, next December, the additional actions that it will take to reach the goal for 2020 that it set for itself in Copenhagen in 2009. Without those actions, the target will be missed, and by far. Canada could have announced those actions during the Climate Summit in New York, but it will unfortunately not take that opportunity. The best we can do is to encourage our government to state to the rest of the planet how it intends to meet its goal by 2020.

Under the current international negotiation process, countries are expected to announce ambitious commitments to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions long before the last negotiating session in Paris in December 2015. In order to make sure that the negotiations are concluded on time, countries are expected to announce what they are ready to commit at the beginning of 2015. Canada will then announce its commitment and demonstrate how it plans to reach the long-term objective that it had felt essential for climate changes to remain within a manageable risk limit, i.e. emission reductions between 80% and 90% by 2015. Canada’s target for the Paris agreement is reaching levels 35% lower than those of 1990 by 2025 and 45% lower by 2030. Canada must also commit to provide major financial and technological support and to reinforce adjustment to climate changes and the capacity of developing countries to reduce GHG emissions.

We expect the federal government to support the efforts made by the provinces to meet a legally-binding national target. We want the federal government to facilitate cooperation throughout Canada and on the international level as well as exchanges and investments in renewable energy so that we can move away from the use of obsolete fossil fuels. The longer we wait, the harder it will be to act.

Progress has been slow. Dangerously slow. The time has come to step up the pace. We are ingenious, creative and competent. We have the ability to change things. We simply need to act.

Donald Lafleur is an Executive Vice-President of the Canadian Labour Congress, which brings together most of Canada’s national and international unions, the ten provincial and two territorial federations of labour and dozens of district labour councils. Through these organizations, the CLC represents over three million union members who work in all occupations and in all parts of Canada.

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Despite the catastrophic costs of inaction, Canada is part of the problem — not part of the solution. According to the Washington-based Centre For Global Development, Canada is last of the wealthiest 27 member countries of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) to engage in climate change remediation. This is an embarrassment. Canada has withdrawn from the Kyoto Accord, and it still has no comprehensive federal climate change legislation. Despite years of promises and delays, sector-specific regulations are still not in place for the oil and gas industry, despite rapidly rising carbon emissions.

We believe the time has come to chart a new model and direction for Canada’s economy. We can no longer espouse an economic model that treats the natural environment and human beings as disposable goods.

As Canadians we desperately need the government to take action on climate change, pursue rapid development of renewable and clean energy, and to get serious about conservation. We need government policy and innovative financing that encourages the retrofitting of Canadian homes and buildings and to insist on energy efficiency as a model for new structures. Governments must rethink mobility by increasing public transportation, investing in high speed inter-urban rail, purchasing fuel efficient domestic cars for vehicle fleets and stopping urban sprawl.

For the good of our future we need to break from the past, by overcoming our addiction to fossil fuels, poverty and the inequalities that plague our society.

We need to build a green economy and jobs that transform the mode of production and consumption in our society. A more environmentally sustainable future can create decent paying, full-time, safe and healthy green jobs in all sectors of society. The time is ripe for change but we must act now.

Happy Earth Day!

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