Budget 2024 falls short on prioritizing workers

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 17, 2024

Halifax – Danny Cavanagh, President of the Nova Scotia Federation of Labour, expressed disappointment in the recently announced Budget 2024, stating that it largely leaves workers behind amidst a cost-of-living crisis. While acknowledging the positive steps such as important spending for school food programs and the capital gains claw back for the top half of the 1% of the population, including corporations, Cavanagh emphasized that more must be done to ensure those who can afford it pay their fair share.

“The budget’s provisions for a care economy committee, early learning and child care, and industrial strategies, as well as investments in housing and post-secondary education, are all welcomed”. However, he stressed the importance of ensuring that housing remains affordable and funding for education is accessible. He also highlighted concerns about the plan to cut 5,000 federal public service jobs through attrition, contrary to previous assurances made by Treasury Board President Anita Anand.

Addressing the Phamacare program, Cavanagh expressed disappointment. “It remains lacking in labour’s goals and needs modernization of the Employment Insurance program, particularly for those reliant on the EI system, especially seasonal workers.”

Cavanagh raised concerns about proposed cuts to public sector jobs, asserting that “Canada’s unions will vehemently oppose any measures that impact workers or essential services relied upon by Canadians. Public spending should prioritize workers and families who form the backbone of the economy.”

While also welcoming investments in the Canada Disability Benefit and childcare spaces, Cavanagh reiterated the need for greater support for people with disabilities and expressed concern over the lack of investment to address the ongoing health crisis, emphasizing the strain on the healthcare workforce.

“We need a budget that prioritizes workers and their families, ensuring financial security in retirement and strengthening public services for all Canadians.”

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For more information or to arrange interviews contact: NSFL President Danny Cavanagh @ (902) 957-0822 

The Nova Scotia Federation of Labour is the provincial voice of the Labour Movement, representing 70,000 members in over 400 union locals.