Now is the time for genuine action and follow-through, not simply rhetoric.
March 2020
“Once we’re through this emergency, things cannot go back to business as usual. Long term changes need to be made.” ― Bob Bymoen, SGEU/NUPGE President
The urgency of COVID-19 is something the National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE) takes very seriously because inmates are living in an environment in which our members work.
Over 1/3 of Canadians are worried about missing a rent or mortgage payment this month because of COVID-19.
Join us for an evening of songs and solidarity to inspire us during this health crisis on Thursday, April 2 at 8 p.m. EDT on https://www.facebook.com/NationalUnionofPublicandGeneralEmployees
The work of the labour movement and our allies is having an effect, as shown by the fact that the CERB is an improvement on earlier announcements. However, there is still more to do.
When work was contracted out, the number of sick days for workers was reduced from 10 to 3.
We need to take care of ourselves especially now and a big part of being healthy means taking care of our mental health. Stress is a major factor in poor health. And for those who struggle with mental illness, depression, posttraumatic stress disorder, these times are especially difficult.
In this time of high stress and growing uncertainty, and as people are spending more time in their homes, the risk of domestic violence is high. Employers and governments must ensure the proper protections and additional resources are in place to support victims and survivors of domestic violence.
The National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE) are concerned about our members, but also those that don't have the same labour rights and protections in the workplace.
“Health care is a human right, regardless of immigration status. All levels of government and health institutions need to act now to remove barriers to care for the medically uninsured to ensure appropriate COVID-19 assessment and care is available. This crisis demonstrates why we need a health care system that ensures access for all.” ― Melanie Spence, OHIP for All member and Registered Nurse
The strength of our health care system rests on our doctors, nurses, health science professionals, allied health workers, EMS personnel, DSWs, PSWs, health care aides, orderlies, cleaners, food service workers and others; to treat patients and keep the broader public safe, they need to be protected.
We are always grateful for our strong public system of health care, but never more so than during a time of uncertainty. We are confident in the knowledge that we have highly trained, experienced public sector workers on the frontline helping to protect our communities during this stressful period
Top concerns are protecting frontline workers, personal protective equipment (PPE), testing for COVID-19, and wage protection.
“Joining a union is the best way for them to protect their work and the patients they care for.” ― Warren (Smokey) Thomas, OPSEU President
“Social workers across this province are struggling to deal with unbearable workloads, massive stress, and toxic workplace environments. The survey results quantify what we have been hearing from social workers. It is truly alarming.” ― Jerry Earle, NAPE President
"These Manitobans are sending a strong message to the government that it needs to reconsider its decision – it's not too late to change course." ― Michelle Gawronsky, MGEU President
As we celebrate International Women's Day (IWD), it is important to acknowledge that we still have much work to do. But today, we also take the time to celebrate the gains that have been made.
“We have seen the effects when snow clearing is privatized in other provinces. Ontario privatized their snow clearing services, which led to a scathing report from the Auditor General.” ― Michelle Gawronsky, MGEU President
"These jobs are difficult, demanding and stressful, but they are there because they are helping people. They deserve our recognition for being an integral part of our health and community support systems. On behalf of the 390,000 members of NUPGE — thank you!" — Bert Blundon, NUPGE Secretary-Treasurer