This situation is yet another reminder of why having not-for-profit organizations take over public services like long-term care doesn’t solve the problem of underfunding. It just changes how the services are funded.

“This tragic death highlights why we have been advocating so strongly for the immediate vaccination of all front-line, health-care workers who put themselves at the greatest risk every day." — Mike Parker, HSAA President

The goodness of each and every one of us has been on display this year, and I am so very grateful for how you have all contributed to bettering the world in which we live. We know that in the new year we will face more challenges to our core values and in our work. Governments will, no doubt, ring the austerity bell once again. We have faced this before. We will remain vigilant and push back against the ideas that weaken our communities. Together in solidarity, we will continue to work for the common good, while opposing corporate greed and those who wish to trample on our human rights at home and around the world. Our solidarity knows no borders.

“This is an insult to these health care workers who have always been helping to keep our health care system secure and operational throughout this pandemic.” — Jason MacLean, NSGEU President.

NUPGE Annual Report: 2020 in Review is a look back on what NUPGE accomplished in 2020.

"NUPGE joins the many voices in Canada and around the world condemning the violence against peaceful protestors and expressing solidarity with the farmers, workers, and other activists who are standing up for their rights, their livelihoods, and for future generations." — Larry Brown, NUPGE President

"This International Human Rights Day, the National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE) is calling on governments to ensure policies brought in because of the global pandemic do not violate human rights" — Larry Brown, NUPGE President

The appointment of someone linked to schemes to privatize public infrastructure as deputy minister of Finance means those concerned about the impact of privatization on the quality, cost and accountability of public services have even more reason to be vigilant.

“Protecting Ontarians against COVID-19 by taking a swipe at the environment is counterproductive and completely wrongheaded.” — Eduardo (Eddy) Almeida, OPSEU First Vice-President/Treasurer

“Just like Walmart decimated the main streets of so many Ontario communities and the livelihoods of so many workers, this plan will destroy Ontario’s beloved college system.” — Warren (Smokey) Thomas, OPSEU President

"The demands on shelters—in terms of capacity and in dealing with more severe cases of abuse—have only increased as the pandemic continues.” – Lise Martin, Executive Director of Women's Shelters Canada

“We’ve been pushing for additional recognition for health care workers for months now. I’m very pleased that this has finally come through.” — Michelle Gawronsky, MGEU President

The National Union of Public and General Employees is joining with Public Services International in supporting calls for a waiver of intellectual property rights on COVID-19 medical products.

"Canadian governments, employers, and unions all have a role to play in eliminating violence and harassment in the world of work, and to ensure the proper supports are in place for those who are affected. In fact, I believe we have a shared responsibility to do so." — Larry Brown, NUPGE President.

Every year, in honour of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, the Canadian Labour Congress (CLC) recognizes a union member for their disability rights activism. The 2020 recipient is BCGEU/NUPGE member Darryl Flasch.