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"To make a difference, Canadians need to pressure our government to take on the issue of income inequality head-on." - James Clancy, NUPGE National President.
Ottawa (05 Oct. 2012) - "We know that over 75 million young people are without employment globally, while others are working multiple part-time, temporary or informal jobs," says James Clancy, National President of the National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE). "On the fifth anniversary of World Day for Decent Work (WDDW), we recommit ourselves to working toward a future that builds a value-added economy which puts people, good jobs and nature at the heart of the economy."
The International Confederation of Trade Unions (ITUC), of which NUPGE is a member, has been highlighting the concept of "decent work" for five years. Decent work means a "holistic approach to the world of work, which includes the right to quality jobs, social protection, worker's rights and social dialogue."
This year, to mark the World Day for Decent Work, a special campaign website has been launched which shows, in the form of weather forecasts, the outlook for employment for young people in hundreds of countries all over the world. Young workers can take action by sending an email, tweet or Facebook message to their labour ministers asking for decent employment for young people.
"To make a difference, Canadians need to pressure our government to take on the issue of income inequality head-on. We need to start with fighting for tax fairness, protecting public services and be ready to stand up for worker's rights whenever they are threatened," Clancy continued.
"But to be truly successful, we must demand a modern industrial strategy to ensure that workers, young workers, aren't thrown into precarious work but who can look forward to good jobs to help them to live full lives, contributing to the economy and building their communities. This strategy must recognize labour, government and business all have a role to play in building a strong and sustainable economy."
"Today is a great reminder to all of us, in Canada and around the globe, of the important work that lies ahead for a more fair, just and equal society that we all deserve."
More information:
World Day for Decent Work website
Work forecast for young people
NUPGE
The National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE) is one of Canada's largest labour organizations with over 340,000 members. Our mission is to improve the lives of working families and to build a stronger Canada by ensuring our common wealth is used for the common good. NUPGE