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Paper connects regressive labour laws to rising income inequality.
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Toronto (27 March 2013) - The Canadian Foundation for Labour Rights (CFLR) released a new research report today which shows that regressive labour laws in Canada have reduced unionization rates which in turn has led to increasing income inequality.
"There is a clear divergence over the years between Canadian union coverage and income inequality," the paper argues.
"At the same time there is extensive research literature that suggests there are significant social and economic benefits for countries with strong labour rights. Income inequality is less extreme,civic engagement is higher, there are more extensive social programs such as health care and pension plans, and the incidence of poverty is significantly smaller."
"Thus, to reduce income inequality, enhance democracy, and improve the quality of life of all Canadians, the federal and provincial governments should be encouraged to strengthen labour rights across the country."
The research report called "Unions Matter" was released at an international conference in Toronto where more than 160 people are gathering to discuss the critical role labour rights and unions play in reducing income inequality, advancing democracy and promoting the social well-being of all Canadians.
The three-day conference, "Labour Rights and Their Impact on Democracy, Economic Equality and Social Justice," is organized by the Canadian Foundation for Labour Rights and sponsored by the National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE), the United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW Canada), and the Canadian Teachers Federation (CTF).
More information:
Canadian Foundation for Labour Rights
NUPGE
The National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE) is one of Canada's largest labour organizations with 340,000 members. Our mission is to improve the lives of working families to build a stronger Canada by ensuring our common wealth is used for the common good. NUPGE