Jobs and the Economy

Myra Falls Mine curtailment is damaging to workers and the local economy

CAMPBELL RIVER, B.C.—Unifor Local 3019 members are considering next steps after learning the company has filed for creditor protection under the Companies Creditor Arrangement Act (CCAA).

“We are going to fight for our members to ensure they get the severance and support they deserve,” said Lana Payne, Unifor National President. 

Mine operations will enter a “care and maintenance” phase. Most Unifor members will be immediately laid off and paid for two weeks. 

Unifor EI Basics - Frequently Asked Questions

Employment Insurance (EI) Regular Benefit Basics How and where do I apply for EI Regular Benefits? To apply for EI benefits, you must submit an application for EI online. This can be done at home, at...
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Government and Democracy
Jobs and the Economy

$19M in government funding for Crofton mill and nothing to show for it

CROFTON—The fourth consecutive curtailment at the Paper Excellence paper mill in Crofton will keep more than 100 workers laid off and the community left wondering why they have nothing to show for $19 million in public funding from two levels of government.

The new curtailment will reportedly extend to the end of February 2024.

Canadians deserve better than misinformed battery plant debate

By Lana Payne 

Originally published in the Windsor Star November 25, 2023

Never let the truth get in the way of a good story.

The famous quote from American author and funny-man Mark Twain helps summarize the firestorm surrounding Windsor’s NextStar battery plant.  

What started as an innocuous social media post from, of all groups, the Windsor Police Service has become a fire-and-brimstone level debate in this country.

Proposed B.C. regulations stop short of best protections for gig workers

VANCOUVER—The proposed regulations outlined today by B.C. Labour Minister Harry Bains delivers long-overdue protections for misclassified gig workers but will stop short of giving them the full employment rights all Canadians deserve, says Unifor.

“Powerful digital platform employers have come to rely on precarious employment, and governments can and must raise the floor for gig workers,” said Lana Payne, Unifor National President. 

Unifor members discuss the impact of climate change on jobs

Unifor's recent conference, "Climate Change and Our Jobs; Building an Economy where no Worker is Left Behind," brought together union members and experts to discuss the intersection of labour, environment, and economic policy in the context of the ongoing climate crisis. The conference featured a variety of speakers and panels addressing different aspects of climate change and its implications for workers.

Anti-scab legislation a major win for workers: Unifor

Ottawa—Today marks a significant victory for Canadian workers as new federal anti-scab legislation ensures workers’ right to strike without the threat of employers using scab labour to needlessly extend labour disputes or attempt to starve workers out.

BC Regional Council mobilizes against scab labour

The ninth Unifor B.C. Regional Council opened with remarks from Alec Dan from the Musqueum band. His family, the Wolf Pack dancers, performed a welcome song and Dan described the history of the territory on which the Council was being held.