The second day of our annual convention started with remarks from National President Mark Hancock, who joined CUPE Newfoundland & Labrador on his 60th birthday. He spoke to delegates about the recent federal election, which he called “a moment of fear, division, and uncertainty,” but that “workers just like us have fought for a better life and a better workplace,” encouraging delegates and attendees to remember what we can achieve together as trade unionists.
Secretary-Treasurer Candace Rennick spoke to delegates about this year’s historic budget, which will allow for increased staff support, campaign funding and strike pay.
Both National Officers thanked the CUPE Newfoundland & Labrador division executive, members of the national executive board, staff and members for another strong year of fighting for workers’ rights and high-quality public services. Brother Hancock and Sister Rennick joined delegates for a sponsored lunch and discussion.
Guest speakers today included Jim Dinn, MHA and NDP leader, and Danielle Sampson, Atlantic Regional Director for the Canadian Labour Congress.
“Liberals in this province have a history of not helping workers, and instead tipping the balance in favour of employers, not workers—that’s balance to them.” – Jim Dinn, Newfoundland & Labrador NDP leader
Delegates also heard presentations from Political Action Coordinator Govind Rao and Atlantic Regional Director Tracey Pinder, as well as updates on municipal sector bargaining and provincial bargaining from national representatives Tom O’Leary and Nicole Dunphy, respectively.
Reports were presented by the Human Rights Committee, Pensions Committee, Health and Safety Committee, and Global Justice Committee.
Discussion and debate came to the floor as the Constitution and Resolutions Committees brought forth the following:
Constitutional Amendments:
- #1 Establish a Young Workers Committee – REFERRED
- #2 Amending Article 4m – CARRIED
- #3 Regarding book-off time for the president – CARRIED
- #4 Amending Articles 9d 8 and 9 – CARRIED
- #5 Amending Article 10 – CARRIED
Resolutions:
- #2 Pension Awareness – CARRIED
- #3 Pension Status – CARRIED
- #4 CPP Investment – CARRIED
- #18 Menstrual Equity – CARRIED
The following resolutions were withdrawn:
- #1 Regarding digital forms
- # 22 Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA)
- #23 Workplace Violence
- #26 Naloxone Kits