The Nova Scotia Federation of Labour calls on provincial party leaders: Show your commitment to workers

As Nova Scotians head back to the polls, the president of the Nova Scotia Federation of Labour, Danny Cavanagh, urges party leaders to prioritize the issues that matter most to workers. “Workers are tired of being left behind,” said Cavanagh. “We need concrete commitments from parties to ensure meaningful change, beginning with commitments to move to a living wage for all and dealing with child and family poverty.”

Cavanagh calls for clarity on party positions regarding union certification and the implementation of card check certification, a step that would simplify the process of forming unions and empower workers to collectively voice their interests more efficiently. “Workers deserve a fair path to unionize without unnecessary hurdles,” he added. Good union jobs strengthen the economy. 

He challenges party leaders to outline their plans to protect and strengthen public services, including ensuring quality care and support for all Nova Scotians and firmly opposing the privatization of public services. “Public accountability and reinvestment in community resources must be non-negotiable,” Cavanagh emphasized.

Further, he urges parties to take a stand against the misuse of non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) that silence workers and obstruct transparency. Legislation promoting openness, protecting the right to speak out, and fostering workplace respect and safety should be a top priority. “Workplace harassment and violence remain pressing issues that require enforceable policies,” he said.

The Federal Leaders agreed and the Federal Government has implemented anti-scab legislation, and Cavanagh insists that provincial leaders follow suit. “We need assurances that parties will commit to anti-scab legislation to protect the rights and dignity of striking workers,” he stated. 

Cavanagh also called on party leaders to communicate their positions on implementing a living wage and alleviating financial strain for families. He stressed the urgent need to overhaul the outdated Labour Standards Code, which has undergone piecemeal changes and remained untouched for over 40 years. He also urged expanding protections to gig economy workers to ensure equitable access to benefits and provide at least 10 days of paid sick leave in Nova Scotia. 

He also expressed concerns that improving the Workers’ Compensation system must be a top priority. “Universal coverage is long overdue, as 26% of workers remain unprotected,” said Cavanagh. “It’s time to ensure better benefits and safety nets for all workers.”

“Nova Scotians deserve to know where each party stands on these critical issues,” Cavanagh concluded. “Workers need confidence that concrete policies will be implemented, enabling workers to regain lost ground, to stay on track, and move forward. It’s time for party leaders to show that they understand these challenges and commit to solutions prioritizing working people.”