It’s time for all provinces to include leadership from Federations of Labour on trade committees and in trade talks

Leadership of Canada’s Federations of Labour meet each year wherever the premiers meet for the Council of the Federation. Following is a statement from our Secretary-Treasurer Melissa Marsman, who is attending.

The premiers’ meeting in Muskoka is taking place at a time when working people are concerned about their jobs, incomes, and the future. The new 35% tariffs from the United States threaten entire sectors and communities. We are urging all premiers to take bold action that puts working people first, starting with real leadership and real inclusion. We need to see some real leadership from our elected leaders on:

Modernize Employment Insurance (EI): We need EI reforms that truly protect workers when they need help most. Too many are left behind during tough times. Provinces must work together and urge the federal government to strengthen EI now, so that all workers have faster access to and better support.

Protect and Invest in Public Services: There must be no cuts to public services. Instead, governments at all levels must invest more in public services and programs that help people find and retain good jobs. This includes increased funding for apprenticeships and retraining, opening doors for workers to develop new skills and pursue new careers. New Job Creation, both private and public, must be built on the premise that good union jobs with benefits lift workers and communities, building strong, prosperous communities that strengthen provincial GDP and foster resilience.

Fight Corporate Greed and Price Gouging: Families cannot keep up with the rising cost of living, especially food. Premiers must take action to crack down on corporate price gouging and put people before profits.

Unions Must Be at the Table: It’s time for all provinces to include leadership from Federations of Labour on trade committees and in trade talks. When decisions affect workers, Labour must be at the table from the very start. The voices of labour and our experiences have much to offer and are crucial to shaping fair solutions that protect jobs and communities. The risks are real: these tariffs threaten union jobs, manufacturing, and our whole economy. Governments must respond with urgency, protect industries, and ensure working people are heard and defended. We expect more than words; we expect real action, and that workers and their communities must have a voice with a seat at the table where it matters most.