The Premier’s Attacks on Workers Are Unacceptable

It’s astonishing and frankly appalling that our Premier has chosen to attack workers instead of engaging in meaningful dialogue. On March 6th, 2025, during the Nova Scotia legislature question period, Premier Houston accused the Federation of Labour of spreading fear. Let’s set the record straight.

We stand up for workers, ensuring their voices are heard as serious discussions unfold about dismantling interprovincial trade barriers. If anyone should be accused of fear-mongering, a government refuses to consult with the people most affected by these Interprovincial Trade changes. Workers deserve a seat at the table.

The Premier is shutting us out while cozying up to business. That should alarm every worker and union in this province. Decisions that affect wages, workplace safety, and job security cannot be dictated solely by those who prioritize profit over those who provide that profit for them. We refuse to let workers’ rights be sold in backroom deals that benefit only the wealthiest interests. Interprovincial trade agreements must be built on fairness, not a race to the bottom.

We will not stand by while protections for workers are watered down or sacrificed entirely. The notion that provinces should compete by eroding labour standards is reckless and unacceptable. Our position is that safe working conditions, fair wages, and job security are non-negotiable, and any changes to trade policies must reflect that.

The Premier’s refusal to engage with labour organizations is an insult to the very people who drive this province forward. Workers are the backbone of our communities. They are not pawns to be moved around for commercial convenience. The government must commit to open and honest discussions with workers’ unions before making any policy shifts. We need strong, enforceable protections that prevent businesses from exploiting weaker labour laws in different provinces.

The Federation of Labour will not be silenced. We will not allow decisions to be made in secrecy while workers are left in the dark. We call on all workers, their unions, our coalition partners and supporters to stand with us and demand accountability from our elected leaders. A thriving economy should uplift everyone, not just those in executive boardrooms.

Together, we will push for policies that foster genuine economic growth and growth that respects, protects, and empowers every worker in this province. The fight is not just necessary; it is urgent. Let’s make our voices impossible to ignore, and yes, your vote matters.