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Warren (Smokey) Thomas will present a brief on behalf of 125,000 OPSEU members across Ontario.
Toronto (13 Jan. 2011) - The Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU/NUPGE) will appeal for fairness to public employees when the finance committee of the provincial legislature holds budget hearings across the province this winter.
"I'll be making a presentation to the budget committee on behalf of 125,000 OPSEU members," OPSEU president Warren (Smokey) Thomas says on the union's website.
"I’ll be making the case for fair treatment for workers and quality public services for all Ontarians. I’ll be arguing for a deficit reduction strategy based on growing the economy from the bottom up, not no-strings-attached donations to corporations."
Before the official presentation of the budget on March 24, the committee will hold public hearings in London, Windsor, Thunder Bay, Timmins and Ottawa the week of Jan. 24 and in Toronto on Jan. 31 and Feb. 1.
"Any government budget is a political document dressed up as a financial statement, especially in an election year," Thomas says.
"This year’s Budget will come out barely six months before we head to the polls on Oct. 6. It will set the stage for what is sure to be a tough, tough campaign."
Thomas is asking for feedback from all OPSEU members across the province to help him prepare for the hearings. He plans to vigorously oppose key policies announced by the Liberal government of Premier Dalton McGuinty.
"The last two budgets mapped out the McGuinty government’s agenda," Thomas notes. "It's core strategy? Tax cuts to corporations and 'austerity' for public services and the people who provide them.... This year is a big year for all of us, and budget day is a big day. I look forward to hearing from you."
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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