Charlottetown – Over 125 public sector workers rallied today outside the provincial government office on Rochford Street to send a clear message to Premier Lantz and his cabinet: public services matter, and so do the workers who deliver them.
The noon-hour rally, organized by the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) PEI, drew members from education, UPEI, education, nursing homes, municipalities, and other frontline sectors. Participants called for immediate action on stalled contract talks, an end to costly privatization schemes, and real investment in public services.
“Premiers have come and gone, but our healthcare locals are still without a fair deal,” said Ashley Clark, President of CUPE PEI, addressing the crowd. They have been waiting since March 2023. “It’s unacceptable that this government continues to waste millions on consultant firms like KPMG while ignoring the practical solutions being offered by its own workers.” “How about listening and bargaining with your own employees before getting third parties to make a profit on the crisis?” asked Clark. CUPE PEI notes that over 5 million dollars has been wasted on opaque consulting firms hired to analyze issues plaguing public healthcare.
Speakers at the rally highlighted the growing pressure on the public system and called on the Lantz government to prioritize its workforce as a path to better service delivery.
“Public services are not a business experiment,” said Clark. “Education needs investment, long-term care needs stability, and our members need wages that keep up with the cost of living.”
CUPE PEI is also concerned by the changes the PC government pushed through regarding visa eligibility for international students. “Their decisions caused layoffs and austerity at the University, and it is affecting both students and staff. This is hurting our province’s future,” said Clark.
Clark also warned that labour relations will be a central issue in the upcoming by-elections across the province. “Our members are mobilized. Voters are paying attention. Fighting back against privatization will matter at the doors and in the ballot boxes.”
CUPE PEI represents thousands of public sector workers across Prince Edward Island in sectors including health, education, municipalities, PSE, and social services.