Celebrating Labour Day

Dear Residents of PEI and CUPE PEI Members,

Happy Labour Day to you and your families. This day holds special significance for us, as we recognize the tireless efforts of workers and the vital role they play in shaping our Island. It’s a time for unity, reflection, and hope for a brighter future.

Labour Day is not just a day off work; it’s a celebration of the sweat, determination, and dedication that each one of us invests in our daily endeavours. As President of CUPE PEI, I am proud to recognize the essential contributions of our union members in making our island a better place for all. Our collective strength has led to safer workplaces, improved wages, better benefits, and a stronger voice for workers’ rights. Together, we have made a lasting impact on the lives of our fellow Islanders.

Yet, as we celebrate our accomplishments, we must also acknowledge the areas where we can do better. Our island is growing, and we must ensure that this growth is accompanied by fairness and equity for all. It’s disheartening to witness so many workers struggling to make ends meet while so few reap the rewards. The rising cost of living, coupled with the critical need for enhanced service – not just in quantity but also in quality – compels us to take action.

Investments in vital sectors like healthcare, education, and the green transition are not just important—they are necessary for our collective well-being and the sustainable future of our island. Quality public services, fair wages, and a commitment to creating green and sustainable jobs are pivotal to our success. We must stand together to ensure that the benefits of growth are shared by everyone, not just a privileged few.

As we celebrate Labour Day, let’s also renew our commitment to fighting for better wages, safer workplaces, and improved services. I invite each and every one of you to participate in the Labour Day events taking place across our island. Let’s showcase our solidarity and determination to build a more just and prosperous PEI.

On behalf of CUPE PEI, I wish you all a joyful and inspiring Labour Day. Let’s continue to be the driving force behind positive change in our beautiful island community.

In Solidarity,

Ashley Clark
President, CUPE PEI

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Come to the PEI FEDERATION OF LABOUR’S  LABOUR DAY PICNIC, this Monday September 4, 2023, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

at the Joseph Ghiz Memorial Park, Charlottetown
Drop by as we celebrate Labour Day 2023! Everyone Welcome
Bouncy Castle for Kids, Hot Dogs, Corn, French Fries and more will be served.
For further information contact our office at (902) 368-3068 or peifed@pei.aibn.com

Gold Cup and Saucer Parade 2023

The rain didn’t dampen the spirits of these CUPE Members at the Gold Cup and Saucer parade in Charlottetown . The theme was summertime on the Island. Our CUPE PEI float included quintessential island activities with a campfire and our rolling green pastures, sand on the beach and our beautiful ocean with a lifeguard protecting public services.  A special thanks to Phillips Auto Sales who generously lent us a truck to pull the float and Good Guys Auto Glass for donating space to work on our float.

Long-Term Care Rate Hike Is Cause for Concern

Click to watch the full CBC Compass interview recorded on August 3, 2023. The segment begins at 18:04.

Charlottetown, PEI – CUPE PEI is deeply concerned about the recent announcement made by Health P.E.I. regarding new increases in daily room rates of public long-term care homes. The maximum daily rate for residents in care homes will be increasing from $92.19 to $105.78 per day, matching the higher private sector rates.

“The idea of increasing rates in the public system, as so to match the private sector is a step backward for families and a leap towards privatization in healthcare,” said Ashley Clark, President of CUPE PEI.

CUPE advocates for a true universal public long-term care system, CUPE PEI believes that access to quality long-term care should not be compromised by financial barriers.

“Rates were already unbearably high. Workers’ wages and retirees’ savings are not keeping up with inflation, so the government should be lowering rates, not increasing them,” said Clark. “This is a time where governments should be making public services more accessible, because families need more help, not less,” she added.

Healthcare in Canada is meant to be free and accessible to all, regardless of income. It is Government’s responsibility to administer this care. Health Minister Mark McLane recognized that “…we can’t expect our private long-term care homes to make investments that don’t make sense to their business model,” (June 16, CBC news). “Yet, by making the public option less attractive, this Government is signaling its intention of stepping away from its responsibility of providing public care. That is unacceptable,” said Clark.

CUPE PEI calls on the King Government to bring all private long-term care and healthcare operations into the public sector. “The government should not sacrifice the well-being of Islanders by handing over their basic responsibilities to the private sector,” concluded Clark.

Ashley Clark Elected President of CUPE PEI

Charlottetown, PEI – CUPE PEI is pleased to announce the election of Ashley Clark as the new president of its provincial division. Elected during the 43rd CUPE PEI AGM, her 2-year mandate officially begins on Monday, June 5th.

In her victory speech, Clark thanked the outgoing president, Leonard Gallant, for having completed two 2-year terms (from 2019 to 2023) and having worked hard to bring more attention to front-line workers’ wages and fighting inflation.

Ashley Clark has been president of Local 1870, representing UPEI Support Staff. She has been involved with her union since 2015 and is active on the local, provincial, and national level. She is passionate about protecting public services from privatization and advancing equity in all institutions.

“I am honoured to have been elected as the President of CUPE PEI,” said Ashley Clark. “I am committed to standing up for our members and fighting for justice in the workplace and improving working conditions for all,” said Clark.

CUPE PEI represents over 3,300 members across various sectors including education, healthcare, municipalities, post-secondary, long-term care, group homes, and many others.


For media inquiries or more information, please contact:

Ashley Clark
President, CUPE PEI
902-213-3353
aclark@cupe.ca

 

Pour publication immédiate                                                                                                         Le 2 juin 2023

Ashley Clark élue présidente du SCFP de l’IPÉ

Charlottetown – La division de l’île du Prince Édouard du Syndicat canadien de la fonction publique (SCFP IPÉ) est heureuse d’annoncer l’élection d’Ashley Clark à titre de nouvelle présidente. Élue lors du 43e AGA du SCFP IPÉ, son mandat de deux ans débute officiellement le lundi 5 juin.

Dans son discours de victoire, Ashley Clark a remercié le président sortant, Leonard Gallant, d’avoir effectué deux mandats (de 2019 à 2023) et d’avoir travaillé fort pour attirer l’attention sur les salaires des travailleurs de première ligne et sur la lutte contre l’inflation.

Dans le passé, Ashley Clark fut présidente de la section locale 1870, qui représente le personnel de soutien de l’UPEI. Elle s’est impliquée dans son syndicat depuis 2015 et est active aux niveaux local, provincial et national du SCFP. Elle se passionne pour la protection des services publics contre la privatisation et la promotion de l’équité dans tous les établissements.

« Je suis honorée d’avoir été élue présidente du SCFP de l’Île-du-Prince-Édouard », a déclaré Ashley Clark. « Je m’engage à défendre nos membres et à lutter pour la justice en milieu de travail et l’amélioration des conditions de travail pour tous », a ajouté Mme Clark.

Le SCFP IPE représente plus de 3 300 membres dans divers secteurs, notamment l’éducation, les soins de santé, les municipalités, l’enseignement postsecondaire, les soins de longue durée, les foyers de groupe et bien d’autres.

Pour plus d’informations ou pour des entrevues en français, contactez:

Ashley Clark
Présidente, SCFP IPÉ
902-213-3353
aclark@cupe.ca

43rd AGM – Ashley Clark Elected President of CUPE PEI

We are thrilled to share with you a summary of the 43rd CUPE PEI convention, where important discussions and decisions were made on behalf of our union members. This gathering brought together over 130 delegates and guests dedicated to promoting fairness, advocating for workers’ rights, and enhancing public services in Prince Edward Island.

Jennifer LeBlanc

The morning session commenced with a lively atmosphere, as attendees enjoyed a breakfast discussion on CUPE’s Anti-Racism Strategy. This initiative aims to foster diversity and inclusivity within our union, ensuring that workers of all backgrounds are valued and represented.

One of the convention’s highlights was the inspiring presentation by Leo Cheverie, a well-known activist from Local 1870. He shared updates on the ongoing “Water is Life” campaign, shedding light on the crucial efforts to protect our precious water resources. Leo’s passion and dedication reminded us of the power we hold as a collective to make positive change.

Leo Cheverie

Delegates actively participated in meaningful debates, particularly on constitutional resolutions. A significant outcome was the unanimous decision to create a diversity seat on the CUPE PEI executive board. This progressive step ensures that the voices and perspectives of Black, Indigenous, and racialized workers are heard and valued within our organization.

During the afternoon, the convention welcomed special guests, Katelyn Rogers and Meghan Rogers, PEI Easter Seals Ambassadors. Their impactful presentation highlighted the vital role our members play in supporting individuals with disabilities and showcased the profound difference our work makes in their lives. Locals Representatives, CUPE National, SCFP Quebec and many more pooled their funds to donate over $15 200 to the PEI Easter Seals

From left to right: CUPE President Mark Hancock, newly elected CUPE PEI President Ashley Clark and Leonard Gallant, outgoing CUPE PEI President

The convention also included important elections. We bid farewell to Leonard Gallant, who concluded his term as Division President and congratulate Ashley Clark on being elected as the new CUPE PEI President (2 year term). In her acceptance speech, Clark expressed her deep gratitude and commitment to advocating for fair wages, safe working conditions, and quality public services. Under her leadership, we are confident that our Division will continue to thrive and make a positive impact on workers and the community.

We would also like to acknowledge the newly elected representatives who will serve on the board:

  • Secretary-Treasurer (2-year term): Linda Jones
  • Health Care East employees representative (2-year term): Darren O’Connor
  • Education West employees representative (2-year term): Chantal Chanel Walsh
  • UPEI 1870 & 501 Security/Police representative (2-year term): Cecia Huang
  • Atlantic EMS/Atlantic Baptist Nursing and Group Homes representative (2-year term): Alice Rice
  • Young Worker representative (1-year term): Mikayla Gallant
  • Trustee (3-year term): Cheryl Koughan

We extend our appreciation to all candidates who put themselves forward, demonstrating their commitment to serving our community and advancing the interests of workers.

In conclusion, we would like to express our gratitude for Islanders’ continued support and engagement. Together, we will strive for a fairer and more inclusive society, where workers’ rights are protected, and public services are of the highest quality. We remain dedicated to building a brighter future for all residents of Prince Edward Island.

43rd AGM – Day One

CUPE PEI began its 43rd annual convention this Thursday, May 25. The convention will last until Friday afternoon. More than 135 convention-goers have come from the four corners of the province to assemble at the Rodd convention hall in Brudenell.

Many resolutions will be debated, notably on housing, cost-of-living issues, anti-privatization, support for our long-term care workers, health and safety campaigns, and much more. Delegates will hear speeches from multiple speakers such as CUPE National Officers Mark Hancock and Candace Rennick, Frédéric Brisson, Secretary-General of SCFP-Quebec, Carl Pursey, President of the PEI Federation of Labour, among others.

Friday is Leonard Gallant’s last day as CUPE PEI president: delegates will vote for a new Division president for a 2-year term.

 

Workers Day of Mourning

On April 28, National Workers’ Day of Mourning, We Remember those who lost their lives on the job.

Day of Mourning Ceremonies will be held at Charlottetown City hall at 10:30am
Summerside City Hall 12:00pm
Wreath laying ceremony at St. Paul’s hall
101 Prince Street at 7:00pm

 

Education should not be forgotten in this election

Charlottetown – CUPE Local 3260, which represents over 800 Education support workers in PEI, is calling on politicians of all stripes to hear what front-line staff have to say to improve the quality of education on the Island.

“Political parties, particularly the PCs, have been rather quiet in this election on what measures they will take to improve K-12 education. There are a lot of challenges in the sector that are unnecessarily happening. Why did Premier King let our bargaining situation degrade to the point where we are at this very moment in the arbitration process?” asked Carolyn Vandaele, President of CUPE Local 3260. “We should have had a new contract by now, but instead, the Education Minister has let the situation fester because apparently, they don’t believe in wages that go above inflation for front-line workers,” added Vadaele.

The Educational Support workers have been without a contract since April 1, 2021. The union is seeking better contract language and better wages to tackle recruitment and retention in their sector.

“When inflation is this high and our pay cheques are going behind, the government should not be nickel-and-diming the people making inclusive education possible on PEI,” said Vandaele.

Local 3260 conducted internal polling, which showed that over 50 percent of members need a second job in order to put gas in their cars and food on their tables for their families.  One member shared just how this affected her: “I am really feeling the brunt of the last 5 years of constantly holding down after-school and summer jobs.  The mental toll that it takes to organize, schedule and complete the after-school jobs that I do is huge.”  

“Our members need to hear from each political party what measures they would put in place to improve working conditions in our sector. It’s not easy making a living when you are only promised about 6 hours a day for 10 months a year,” concluded Vandaele.

 

CUPE Local 3260 represents over 800 Educational Assistants and Youth Service Workers, Student Attendants, Workplace Assistants, and Education Interpretation Workers in the PEI school system.

Global People Power: Building worker solidarity in a global economy

April 5, 2023 [6:30 – 9:30 pm AST]

REGISTER HERE

This workshop explains the role that capitalism plays in workers’ lives, and examines the links between local and global issues. We will explore how building solidarity with workers in other countries makes the labour movement stronger in Canada and around the world. This workshop will be offered virtually on April 5, 2023 at 6:30 p.m. Atlantic. If you would like to register for this course, click the link https://cupe.ca/mrm-union-education/event/6213