This is an archive of news stories and research from the National Union of Public and General Employees. Please see our new site - https://nupge.ca - for the most current information.
“Once we’re through this emergency, things cannot go back to business as usual. Long term changes need to be made.” ― Bob Bymoen, SGEU/NUPGE President
The urgency of COVID-19 is something the National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE) takes very seriously because inmates are living in an environment in which our members work.
Over 1/3 of Canadians are worried about missing a rent or mortgage payment this month because of COVID-19.
Join us for an evening of songs and solidarity to inspire us during this health crisis on Thursday, April 2 at 8 p.m. EDT on https://www.facebook.com/NationalUnionofPublicandGeneralEmployees
The work of the labour movement and our allies is having an effect, as shown by the fact that the CERB is an improvement on earlier announcements. However, there is still more to do.
When work was contracted out, the number of sick days for workers was reduced from 10 to 3.
We need to take care of ourselves especially now and a big part of being healthy means taking care of our mental health. Stress is a major factor in poor health. And for those who struggle with mental illness, depression, posttraumatic stress disorder, these times are especially difficult.
In this time of high stress and growing uncertainty, and as people are spending more time in their homes, the risk of domestic violence is high. Employers and governments must ensure the proper protections and additional resources are in place to support victims and survivors of domestic violence.
The National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE) are concerned about our members, but also those that don't have the same labour rights and protections in the workplace.
“Health care is a human right, regardless of immigration status. All levels of government and health institutions need to act now to remove barriers to care for the medically uninsured to ensure appropriate COVID-19 assessment and care is available. This crisis demonstrates why we need a health care system that ensures access for all.” ― Melanie Spence, OHIP for All member and Registered Nurse
The strength of our health care system rests on our doctors, nurses, health science professionals, allied health workers, EMS personnel, DSWs, PSWs, health care aides, orderlies, cleaners, food service workers and others; to treat patients and keep the broader public safe, they need to be protected.
We are always grateful for our strong public system of health care, but never more so than during a time of uncertainty. We are confident in the knowledge that we have highly trained, experienced public sector workers on the frontline helping to protect our communities during this stressful period
Top concerns are protecting frontline workers, personal protective equipment (PPE), testing for COVID-19, and wage protection.
