Statement from the Nova Scotia Federation of Labour on the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, October 17, 2024
On this International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, the Nova Scotia Federation of Labour stands in solidarity with workers and communities who continue to struggle against poverty and economic inequality. As we reflect on the challenges many Nova Scotians face, we recognize that poverty is not just a lack of income but a complex issue that intersects with various aspects of life, including access to education, healthcare, housing, and decent work. In our province, too many individuals and families struggle to make ends meet despite working full-time.
The recent passage of the Pharmacare Act is a significant victory in our fight against poverty. This historic win will help alleviate the financial burden on many Nova Scotians who have had to choose between paying for prescriptions and other necessities. Introducing ten-dollar-a-day child care is another positive step that will benefit many families, and our work on that front continues.
However, urgent action is needed. We call on the provincial government to take immediate steps to implement a Living Wage. This is crucial to ensure that all workers in Nova Scotia earn a wage that allows them to meet their basic needs and participate fully in society. The current minimum wage needs to meet this standard. Nova Scotia currently has one of the lowest income support rates in our Country, leaving many families well below the poverty line. To address this, we need to pressure the provincial government to increase Income assistance rates to match the Market Basket Measure threshold and index them to inflation.
We also must work to strengthen our labour standards, with changes needed to protect workers’ rights and prevent their exploitation entirely. We must also invest more in affordable housing by working harder to ensure all governments address the housing crisis by increasing the supply of affordable housing and implementing more robust rent control measures. Our province must work to enhance social assistance programs and invest in childcare, education, and skills training to break the cycle of poverty and recognize the crucial role of unions in reducing income inequality and protecting workers’ rights by facilitating unionization and collective bargaining.
On this important day, we reaffirm our dedication to the fight against poverty and call on all Nova Scotians to join us in this crucial endeavour. Together, we can create a future where no one is left behind. By implementing these measures, Nova Scotia can create a more comprehensive support system for low-income families, addressing critical areas like income, housing, healthcare, and targeted family benefits. This multi-faceted approach can help reduce poverty and improve the quality of life for vulnerable families across the province. Addressing these barriers requires comprehensive policy changes and increased investments in social programs to provide adequate support for low-income families in Nova Scotia.
The Nova Scotia Federation of Labour remains steadfast in its commitment to advocating for policies and practices that promote economic justice and dignity for all workers. We firmly believe that working with labour unions, community organizations, and the government can build a more equitable and prosperous Nova Scotia where poverty is truly eradicated.
