District 5 News
Steelworkers Humanity Fund Provides $45,000 to Support Bangladeshi Garment Workers Affected by Corporate Wage Theft
“Canadian garment brands and retailers have a responsibility to protect the incomes of the women working in their global supply chains.”
Steelworkers Ratify Contract Extension at Ciment Québec
Three-year contract extension, precipitated by strong demand for cement, a skilled labour shortage and investment plans, includes significant monetary improvements.
Major Job Improvements Needed to Address Quebec’s Child-Care Worker Shortage: Steelworkers
“One in three educators is thinking of quitting and there is no one to replace them. As long as we don't improve wages, we won't be able to recruit and retain educators.”
Steelworkers Humanity Fund Contributes $50,000 to Support Victims of Wildfires in B.C.
The Steelworkers Humanity Fund is contributing $50,000 to the United Way’s BC Wildfire Recovery Fund, to provide immediate and longer-term support to victims of the wildfires in British Columbia.
Quebec Ferry Workers Denounce Employer’s Refusal to Negotiate
“There is deliberate inaction by the government in negotiations with public-sector workers.”
Steelworkers Make Big Gains at Minerai de fer Québec
“Conditions for negotiations were much better this time, with good prices for iron ore, and this was reflected in the results.”
Living Next Door to Genocide
"The news of the discovery of 751 unmarked graves near that Marieval “school” fills me with profound grief and makes me reflect." – USW National Director Ken Neumann
USW Calls on Federal Government to Crack Down on Anti-Worker Practices by Canadian Mining Companies
The federal government must ensure Canadian companies operating abroad respect human rights and freedom of association as required by the CUSMA.
Quebec Court of Appeal Confirms Equal Pay Principle for Student Workers
Court ruling is a victory for the Steelworkers union’s campaign for student workers’ rights.
Taking Steps Toward Reconciliation at the Bargaining Table
In June, Steelworkers celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day on June 21, and the rich history of the many Indigenous Peoples of this land throughout the entire month.
USW Denounces Religious Hate Crime in London, Ont., Calls for Action
Steelworkers express our grief and send condolences to the family of those who died, and best wishes for the young survivor. We call on governments at all levels to strengthen laws related to race and religious hatred.
Quebec Steelworkers Win New Contract, Strike Ends at ArcelorMittal
Four-year agreement expected to increase local economic spin-offs by 14% annually.
Tentative Agreement Reached in Strike at ArcelorMittal Quebec Operations
Ratification meetings will be held over the next few days for 2,500 striking members of five United Steelworkers’ locals.
Steelworkers Urge Federal MPs to Protect Pensioners and Workers in Bankruptcies
“This is an opportunity to get this issue resolved before the next election.”
Quebec Steelworkers Join Marathon Labour Demonstration Against Bill 59
ArcelorMittal strikers among workers converging on Quebec City to oppose cuts to health and safety protections.
Impasse Persists at ArcelorMittal, Strike Continues
A strike by 2,500 Steelworkers continues at ArcelorMittal facilities in Fermont and Port-Cartier.
Steelworkers in Montreal and Montérégie Pledge Solidarity to ArcelorMittal Strikers
“We stand in solidarity with the people of the North and will support them financially throughout this dispute.”
Solidarity in Hard Times: Upcoming Online Conferences
We are happy to introduce a series of three online one-day conferences built around the theme of “Solidarity in Hard Times" where Steelworkers can exchange ideas on how we can support one another and our communities during these unusual times.
Got the Shot: Steelworkers happy, relieved to receive COVID-19 vaccines
As vaccinations across the country ramp up, we talked to some Steelworkers working in health care about their experiences and what being vaccinated means for them.
In Near-Unanimous Vote, Steelworkers Reject ArcelorMittal Contract Offer, Begin Strike
“This company has really been squeezing these workers and it must start to show some renewed respect to those who generate the profits.”
Steelworkers Honour the 29th Anniversary of the Westray Mine Disaster
Twenty-nine years later, the Steelworkers union continues to fight for employers to be held criminally responsible for workplace injuries and death.
The Steelworkers Humanity Fund Provides $5,000 to Support Victims of COVID-19 in India
Confronted with the critical situation in India, the Steelworkers Humanity Fund has provided emergency funds totalling $5,000 to Oxfam-Quebec to strengthen the COVID-19 humanitarian response, and to support economic stimulus.
United Steelworkers National Director Announces Retirement
Longtime United Steelworkers union (USW) National Director for Canada Ken Neumann announced today he will not seek re-election in the union’s international elections this fall.
Quebec Steelworkers Reject ArcelorMittal Contract Offer
"We are reaching out to the employer to get back to the table and negotiate an improved offer to address the members’ concerns."
Ken Neumann Statement on Asian Heritage Month 2021
In May each year, Steelworkers join with communities celebrating Asian Heritage Month.
Improving Democracy at the Canadian Labour Congress (CLC)
USW delegates to CLC Convention – Support the constitutional resolution to improve CLC democracy.
We Can Help Bangladeshi Garment Workers, Who Still Struggle Eight Years After Factory Collapse
Changes that will improve the lives of millions of garment workers are within reach – if Canadian retailers and brands are prepared to act.
Day of Mourning 2021
A joint letter from the Canadian Directors.
Federal Budget 2021 Overview
An overview of the federal budget 2021 from the United Steelworkers of Canada
Federal Budget Must Help Workers and Strengthen Canada: Steelworkers
“The Liberals need to stop making promises they have no intention of keeping and present a concrete plan to support people in need.” - Ken Neumann
Alma Steelworkers Raise the Bar on Women’s Health and Safety
Local 9490 activists launch joint labour-management process to tackle women’s health and safety issues at the Rio Tinto aluminum smelter in Alma, Que.
Quebec Steelworkers Reach Tentative Agreement With ArcelorMittal Mines
About 2,500 union members will vote on proposed contract in coming weeks.
Federal Prison Chaplains Improve Working Conditions, Ratify First Union Contract
Members of the United Steelworkers, Canada's prison chaplains have achieved a contract aimed at improving working conditions and spiritual care to thousands of inmates.
United Steelworkers Union: Build Back Better Through Infrastructure Spending on Both Sides of the Border
The Steelworkers union sees U.S. President Joe Biden’s American Jobs Plan as an opportunity to maintain and create jobs, bolster manufacturing and make our communities safer on both sides of the border.
Closing the Wage Gap Needs an Economic Recovery for Women: Ken Neumann’s Statement for Equal Pay Day 2021
Each year in early April, we “celebrate” Equal Pay Day, but it’s not much of a celebration, marking how many extra days into 2021 it takes the average Canadian woman to earn as much as the average man earned in the twelve months of 2020.
Steelworkers Counter Anti-Union Practices at Community Care Agency
Union seeks first-contract arbitration in wake of 10-month stalemate in negotiations.
Quebec Mining Workers Sound Alarm on Health and Safety
Steelworkers warn Bill 59 will set back occupational health and safety in the mining industry by more than 40 years.
New Report Links Canadian Retailers to Never-Ending Hardships of Bangladeshi Garment Workers
Steelworkers Humanity Fund report establishes clear connection between Canadian retailers and Bangladeshi garment factories that trap workers – primarily women – in poverty and struggle.
USW Supports Team Unite the CLC!
The United Steelworkers union is calling on local union leaders to send delegates to the upcoming online Canadian Labour Congress Convention – June 16-18.
Steelworkers Humanity Fund Setting Up New Partnerships to Support Women’s Rights in the Workplace in Bolivia and Peru
The Steelworkers Humanity Fund is establishing partnerships with organizations in Bolivia and Peru to amplify women workers’ voices and rights in the mining, municipal and retail sectors, and to raise awareness on gender-based violence issues.
USW Expresses Hopes for a More Equitable Post-Pandemic Future
“As we mourn the loss of life over the last year and reflect on the impact of the pandemic, we know the work is even more urgent to fight for the changes we need to make workers safer and our country fairer.” – Ken Neumann, USW National Director
Steelworkers Secure Good Contract at Forterra
In addition to total wage increases of 8.25%, three-year deal includes additional wage adjustments and improvements to group RRSP and shift premiums.
Canada Had to Test Masks in Florida
The Department of Health was so poorly prepared for the outbreak of the pandemic it had to send masks to Florida for safety testing, say internal records.
Steelworkers Make Gains at Métallurgie Brasco
New contract provides total wage increases of 7% and improvements to shift premiums and benefits.
Steelworkers Call Out Liberals’ Failure on Pharmacare
“When the chance came for action on a policy that would save people’s lives, the Liberals failed. They teamed up with the Conservatives and voted ‘No’,” said USW National Director Ken Neumann.
Ken Neumann’s Statement for International Women’s Day 2021
USW makes work and activism more accessible for women.
USW Sees Opportunity for Canadian Workers as Trudeau and Biden Meet
"The new president's stated commitments offer the perfect opportunity for the prime minister to seek Canadian exemptions to Buy American policies, permanently resolve the softwood lumber dispute and start incorporating our countries' climate plans."
United Steelworkers Denounces Possible Increase to U.S. Softwood Duties, Calls for Reversal
“There is no justification to increase duties. Our union is calling on the new administration to reverse this approach.” – Ken Neumann
USW Demands Justice for Victims of Grupo Mexico
On 15th anniversary of deadly Pasta de Conchos mine disaster, Steelworkers and Los Mineros renew demand for justice and accountability.
Take Action: Urge Your MP to Vote Yes to Pharmacare
Momentum is growing for NDP Member of Parliament (MP) Peter Julian’s private member’s bill, Bill C-213, An Act to Enact Pharmacare. Steelworkers can help.
What’s Your Work Story? Write for Our Times
Call for submissions for USW members to write your work story for Our Times magazine.
When it Comes to Building Materials, Canada Has a Climate Advantage to Use (or Lose)
New U.S. President Joe Biden has a USD $2-trillion plan to build America’s clean economy. That’s trillion with a t. The good news for us: when it comes to the carbon footprint of these construction materials, Canada has a unique advantage.
New Project Templates for the Family and Community Education Fund
Project templates from the Family and Community Education Fund (FCEF) make planning and hosting Steelworker events easier!
Tragic Death of a Steelworker at Munitions Plant in Repentigny, Que.
The United Steelworkers is shaken by the death of one of its members Wednesday in an explosion at a General Dynamics munitions plant.
Steelworkers Welcome New Members at Weston Plant in Gatineau
Members join a new USW local aiming to organize workers throughout the Outaouais region.
Federal Prison Chaplains Negotiate Landmark First Union Contract
“This agreement comes at a critical time for Canada’s prison chaplains and the inmates for whom they provide spiritual care.” - Ken Neumann
Nortek Workers Achieve Good First Contract
The agreement improves working conditions and provides significant wage increases and adjustments.
Canada Should “Buy Clean” to Cut Emissions and Boost the Economy
“We need our governments to support the creation and retention of good jobs by strengthening Canadian industrial and manufacturing capacities in ways that support the low-carbon transition of the economy.” – Ken Neumann, USW National Director
Canadian Steel Plants Require More Orders from Governments
“We cannot afford more job losses and more good-paying Canadian jobs moved offshore.” - Stephen Hunt
Quebec’s Bill 59 Is UNACCEPTABLE!
Allegedly aimed at reforming occupational health and safety, Quebec's Bill 59 will turn back the clock on workers’ rights and protections.
Workers in a Pandemic Need More Than Being Told to ‘Just Stay Home’
In this opinion article in iPolitics, USW National Director Ken Neumann writes about why workers need more than just well-meaning words to stay home and safe during the pandemic.
Steelworkers, SFP Pointe-Noire Reach Tentative Agreement
If ratified, this would be the first collective agreement at the new SFP Pointe-Noire, which operates an iron ore pellet plant and railway and transhipment facilities on Quebec’s North Shore.
Ken Neumann Statement for Black History Month
In our union’s proud history of promoting and supporting equality, Steelworkers celebrate Black History Month each February.
Donna is Raising the Bar on Women’s Health and Safety
Late last year, the USW launched an important new campaign: Raising the Bar on Women’s Health and Safety. Local union leaders and activists are off to a running start in 2021.
Machinerie Laurin’s Laval Unionized Workers Choose United Steelworkers
The forty or so workers employed by Machinerie Laurin in Laval have opted to join the United Steelworkers (USW). These workers manufacture industrial metal containers for waste materials.
FCEF Application Deadline Fast Approaching
The Family and Community Education Fund (FCEF) wants to fund your next membership engagement event. January 22, 2021, is our next project deadline for initiatives costing more than $5,000!
Steelworkers Humanity Fund Contributes $10,000 to Alleviate Growing Humanitarian Crisis in Ethiopia
“It is my hope that our support will help alleviate this crisis and encourage other progressive organizations to do the same so the world does not face another humanitarian disaster.” - Ken Neumann
USW Mourns the Passing of Former District 6 Director Harry Hynd
It brings our union great sadness to advise that former District 6 Director Harry Hynd passed away on December 29 in Hamilton, with his beloved wife Margaret at his side. Harry was 87 and had been struggling with his health for many years.
Canadian Labour Movement Condemns State Force Violence Against Colombian Trade Union Leaders
"We unequivocally condemn the violence being perpetrated by state forces against trade union leaders, human rights defenders and oppressed communities."
First Agreement for YUL Bar and Restaurant Workers
Seniority and recall rights to be protected for 24 months during the pandemic.
Steelworkers National Aboriginal Committee Online Connecting Circles for 2021
The USW National Aboriginal Committee is hosting a series on online Connecting Circles in 2021. These events allow us to stay in touch and assure all Steelworkers that our union is committed to advancing Indigenous rights, in workplace and in society.
National Survey on Workplace Violence and Harassment
Harassment and violence are a serious health and safety issue that have no place in the workplace. We need to do something about it. If you work, take part in this new national survey.
Amidst Historic Upheaval, Steelworkers' Solidarity Endures
A message from the National Director, Ken Neumann.
Ken Neumann Statement for International Human Rights Day
Each year on December 10, the United Steelworkers observe Human Rights Day. The day commemorates the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) by the United Nations.
Ken Neumann’s Statement for December 6, the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women
Federal government must create a national action plan on violence against women, implement national inquiry report
117 Food Banks Across Canada Receive $226,750 from the Steelworkers Humanity Fund
The Steelworkers Humanity Fund's year-end contributions to food banks and community food centres across Canada helps organizations support those facing food insecurity, especially during COVID-19.
U.S. Reduction of Duties on Canadian Lumber a Good First Step, but Softwood Lumber Dispute Must End, Says USW
Solving the softwood lumber dispute must be made a priority in Canada, the United Steelworkers says.
Child and Youth Education Content Creator – Due January 31, 2021
The USW, through its Family & Community Education Fund (FCEF), is seeking proposals from qualified applicants to develop age-appropriate educational activities for children up to 17 years old.
New FCEF Family Care Reimbursement Program
The USW’s Family & Community Education Fund (FCEF) has launched an important new family care reimbursement program.
Canada’s Labour Unions Could Play Big Role in Efforts to Avert ‘Buy American’ Rules
"We're going to be a voice, and rightfully so," said Ken Neumann, national director of the United Steelworkers in Canada, 225,000 of whose 850,000 North American members live and work north of the border.
Standing Up for Steel at Gerdau in Whitby, ON
It’s not too much to ask all our politicians to Stand Up for Canadian Steel, says John Catto, president, USW Local 6571.
Solidarity Statement in Support of the People of Belarus
The United Steelworkers union in Canada, representing more than 225,000 workers in mining and many other sectors of the economy, are deeply concerned about the brutal violence and repression against the people of Belarus.
USW Rejects Endorsement of Former Federal Finance Minister Bill Morneau for OECD Role
Late on October 30, the CLC, without consulting any union affiliate, announced a joint endorsement with the business lobby group, the Canadian Chamber of Commerce of former Finance Minister Bill Morneau for the role of Secretary General of the OECD.
Trade Tribunal Decision a Breakthrough for Steelworkers
This CITT decision reinforces our Steelworkers' campaign for full standing in launching trade cases. Our union and its members play an essential role in determining the impact of unfair trade.
Ken Neumann Statement for October 4, National Day to Commemorate Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women
Statement from USW National Director Ken Neumann for October 4, National Day to Commemorate Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women.
Employment Insurance Changes Welcome, but Must Be Made Permanent – Steelworkers
“Workers and their communities must not be held hostage to laws that, instead of assisting them in tough times, punish them for doing an honest day’s work.”
Steelworkers Humanity Fund Provides $72,000 to Support Populations Affected by COVID-19
“Everyone does not fare the same through COVID-19. We are supporting initiatives to address longer-term effects on the most marginalized.”
USW Endorses Motion 46 Guaranteed Livable Basic Income
"Motion 46 addresses a way forward in strengthening our social safety net for all." - Ken Neumann
Steelworkers Union Urges Federal Strategy for Stronger, Greener Canadian Aluminum Sector
“Investing in the future will protect jobs today and for decades to come and will strengthen the Canadian economy.”
Labour Day 2020: the Pandemic Reminds us of the Importance of our Movement
On Labour Day, I am reflecting on the meaning of solidarity and how it is the foundation of our movement. This pandemic has been a profound reminder of the importance of solidarity, for the trade union movement and progressive movements more generally.
Forestry Workers Welcome WTO Decision on U.S. Softwood Tariffs, Time to Settle Long-Standing Dispute
“These duties must be removed immediately for the benefit of all forestry workers and for the future of our industry.”
Investing in Domestic Aluminum Industry Is Best Response to U.S. Tariffs
Funds raised from retaliatory tariffs must be invested to better position the domestic aluminum industry for the future.
Victoria Starbucks Workers Vote to Join United Steelworkers
Workers at a Starbucks drive-thru in Victoria, B.C., have voted overwhelmingly to join the United Steelworkers union, because they believe the best way to protect their health and safety on the job is through a union.
Steelworkers Humanity Fund Supports the Population of Beirut Affected by Port Explosions with $5,000 Donation
Funds provided by the Steelworkers Humanity Fund, contributed by Steelworkers members across Canada, have been donated to the Canadian Red Cross Lebanon Humanitarian Needs Fund, for health-care relief.
In July, Steelworkers Humanity Fund Provided $42,800 to Organizations to Support Workers Affected by COVID-19
The Steelworkers Humanity Fund contributed $42,800 to organizations in Colombia, Peru, Madagascar, Guatemala and Palestine to address the needs of communities impacted by the effects of coronavirus on local economies.
Open Letter to the Federal Government: Canada Needs Pharmacare Now
The United Steelworkers union has signed onto an open letter to calling on the federal government to immediately take action to establish a national, universal, single-payer public pharmacare program.
Help Stop Human Rights Abuses by Canadian Companies Abroad – Sign the Petition!
Act to ensure Canadian companies respect human rights and the environment. Sign the petition.
Canada Must Retaliate Swiftly to Trump’s Tariffs: Steelworkers
“The re-imposition of these bogus U.S. tariffs is threatening thousands of Canadian jobs. It is now time for Canada to stand up for Canadian aluminum workers.” - Ken Neumann
Westray Law Should Have Applied in New Brunswick Fatality, Say Steelworkers
“We want workers and their families to be provided with justice. A fine is not justice. It is permission to repeat the offence of an unsafe workplace.” - Marty Warren
Jean Gérin-Lajoie (1928-2020): A Pioneeer of Quebec’s Labour Movement
“The Steelworkers union is extremely privileged to have been able to count on a man of such great skill and humanity over so many years.”
Governments Must Act Now to Address Women’s Inequality: Steelworkers
“In developing the programs for an economic recovery, the government must rely on measures that focus on women’s employment, including investing in the caring economy,” said Ken Neumann, USW National Director.
In June, Steelworkers Humanity Fund Provided $15,000 to Organizations to Support Workers Affected by COVID-19
“The COVID-19 pandemic has left workers and entire communities to fend for themselves, with very little or no government assistance. In this context, the little support we provide goes a long way, giving people a chance to overcome this acute crisis."
Pressure on Canadian Aluminum, Steel and Softwood Lumber Shows Fundamental Problems with International Trade: Steelworkers
USW National Director Ken Neumann told the federal Standing Committee on International Trade that COVID-19 has exposed fundamental problems with the international trading system and Canada’s reliance on global supply chains for essential products.
USW Social Media Comment Policy: Let's talk, respectfully
Our union was founded in 1942 with a sacred principle that still guides us today: all are welcome. With that being said, we wanted to remind everyone of our official USW comment policy for our Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube pages.
Aluminum Tariffs Would Make Mockery of NAFTA 2 and Ignore the Real Problem
“Virtually everyone agrees, including unions and major aluminum producers in the U.S., that there is no justification for new tariffs on Canadian aluminum.” - Dominic Lemieux
Steelworkers Union Welcomes WSIB Decision Recognizing McIntyre Powder-Related Parkinson’s as Occupational Disease
“This victory means workers’ claims for compensation may finally be met. It's a significant step toward justice for elderly and sick retirees and their families."
Canada Emergency Response Benefit Extended by Eight Weeks
The Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) has been extended from 16 to 24 weeks.
Workers’ Compensation System a ‘National Disgrace’: United Steelworkers
Provincial governments must rectify fatal flaws in the workers’ compensation system that continue to ruin lives and exacerbate the opioid crisis
Even Richer Than You Think – Time for Liberals to Act on Growing Inequality, Says Steelworkers Union
“This is an outrageous imbalance. The richest, wealthiest families in Canada are holding more than $3 trillion, which is a quarter of the worth of the whole country. This is out of whack. Let’s heed this warning.”
Pandemic Pay for Security Guards: We’re Waiting!
More than 5,200 Quebecers sign petition to the National Assembly in support of a pandemic premium for the province's security guards.
The Jury Is In: Unconstitutional Attacks on Workers’ Rights Must End
The latest in a long line of court rulings strikes down another ‘draconian’ violation of collective bargaining rights guaranteed by the Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
We Must Keep Indigenous Issues on Political Agenda: Ken Neumann’s Statement for June 21, National Indigenous Peoples Day
Let’s mark June 21, National Indigenous People’s Day, by committing to keep issues of key concern to Indigenous peoples at the top of Canada’s political agenda during and after the pandemic.
Federal Prison Chaplains Apply for Conciliation in First-Contract Negotiations
Chaplains request conciliation in collective bargaining amidst undue suffering and rising tensions within federal prison system.
Help Save Child Care and Early Learning
Help save early learning and child care. Sign on to support Canada’s three national child care organizations that have developed a plan to sustain early learning and child care through the pandemic.
Apply by June 30: Activist Initiates Family and Community Education Fund Project in Sudbury
The Family and Community Education Fund (FCEF) supported a Sudbury project that is an example of how the fund can help develop young leaders in the union while serving the local’s goals of greater community connection.
Pandemic Exposes Urgent Need for Reforms for Workers, all Canadians: Ken Neumann
USW National Director Ken Neumann appears on Sauga 960 AM radio to advocate for critical issues for workers and all Canadians during the pandemic.
USW Condemns Anti-Black Racism and Racist Violence
The United Steelworkers union in Canada condemns anti-Black racism in all its forms and the racist violence that has occurred on both sides of the border. Our union stands in solidarity with Black communities around the globe.
Anti-Black Racism and Anti-Racism Resources
The United Steelworkers union in Canada and the United States unequivocally condemns the racism and racist violence that has occurred in the last number of weeks on both sides of the border.
Apply by June 30: Family and Community Education Fund Can Support Pandemic Projects
Are members of your local feeling stressed and having trouble juggling daily tasks and responsibilities during COVID-19? Maybe the USW Family and Community Education Fund (FCEF) can help.
New Website Tracks Anti-Asian Racism
A new website – Fight COVID Racism – is a way for individuals to share their experiences of racism.
Federal Government Delays Release of National Action Plan on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women
The Trudeau government is postponing the release of the action plan promised for June, one year after the release of the national inquiry’s final report.
Share Your COVID-19 Work Experience
A national survey has been launched to document and analyze the experiences of workers during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Steelworkers Call for Health and Safety Reforms Following Report into Worker’s Death
Quebec’s workplace health and safety agency cites poor management of inspection and maintenance procedures as one of the causes of fatality.
Steel Dumping Investigations Must Proceed Without Delay: Steelworkers
“Workers and their families are already suffering during this crisis. We can’t allow illegal dumping to threaten more jobs in our community.”
USW Encourages Solidarity, Virtual Pride Celebrations During the Pandemic: Ken Neumann Statement for Pride Month 2020
In June, Steelworkers join with LGBTQ2SIA+ communities across the world to celebrate Pride Month.
Steelworkers Union Praises NDP Victory in Securing Paid Sick Leave Commitment
“The federal government must do everything in its power to quickly bring all provinces and territories on board to ensure paid sick leave for all workers.”
Quebec Steelworkers Join with Employer to Support Local Food Bank
“It’s important to support the community when so many are going through very tough times.”
Feds Must Rescind Punitive Income Restrictions for Thousands of Canadians: Steelworkers
“The government’s misguided position serves no purpose, other than denying workers much-needed income that they have negotiated with their employers.”
USW COVID-19 Demands to Federal and Provincial Governments
The United Steelworkers union calls on the federal government to immediately enact the following reforms to support workers and retirees during these uncertain times.
New Canada-U.S.-Mexico Trade Deal is Flawed – Ken Neumann on RadioLabour
RadioLabour’s Marc Belanger talks to USW National Director Ken Neumann about the new trade deal.
Planned EI Changes Must Extend to Tourism, Hotel and Restaurant Workers, USW Says
New federal support for fisheries sector must be expanded to tourism, hotel and restaurant workers affected by pandemic.
Basic Training Would Have Saved a Life
Quebec health and safety agency’s report into workplace fatality indicates employer failed in its duty to train workers.
We Remember Those Lost 28 Years Ago in the Westray Mine Explosion Like It Was Yesterday: Steelworkers
The USW union remembers with heavy hearts the 28th anniversary of the devastating loss of 26 miners in the Westray Coal Mine explosion. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of those lost and their Nova Scotia communities.
May is a Key Anniversary for Women’s Reproductive Rights
Fifty years ago this month, Canadian women converged on Ottawa for Mothers’ Day to demand something we now take for granted: each woman’s right to decide if and when they become mothers.
Proposal to Postpone USW International Convention
COVID-19 crisis leads International Executive Board to pass a resolution postponing 2020 USW Constitutional Convention.
Ken Neumann's Statement for Asian Heritage Month 2020
Each year, Steelworkers celebrate May as Asian Heritage Month. We recognize the incredible contributions Asian Canadians have made to this country, and to our union.
Steelworkers Humanity Fund Provides $50,000 to Support Bangladeshi Garment Workers Affected by COVID-19
“The contribution will make a huge difference in the lives of 750 families who will receive food packages and medical kits.” - Ken Neumann
USW Family and Community Education Fund - Report on 2019 Projects
In 2019, the USW Family and Community Education Fund supported projects under four themes: Supporting Steelworker Families, Promoting USW in the Community, Supporting and Engaging Young Activists and Supporting and Engaging New Activists.
Virtual FCEF Project Applications Welcome During COVID-19
Until June 30, 2020, any local in Canada can apply to the Family and Community Education Fund (FCEF) to fund a project to help its members, families and communities stay connected in these challenging times.
One Lesson from the Pandemic: Canada Needs to Rebuild Manufacturing
One of the by-products of COVID-19 is that people are paying attention to where things are manufactured. By focusing on an industrial growth strategy, governments can help ensure that the economic recovery that follows the pandemic will be more durable.
Equity in Hard Times
During COVID-19, we need to remember our union principle of “Solidarity Forever.” An injury to one is an injury to all. Human rights are workers’ rights. We must include ALL in our recognition of harm. Statement by National Director Ken Neumann.
Day of Mourning and COVID-19
Many events that would otherwise be the work of the union have been suspended because of the global pandemic, but we hope that we can all continue to prepare for the Day of Mourning in our communities, whether we are able to gather in ceremony or not.
Ottawa’s Wage Subsidy Must Be Designed Primarily to Help Workers: United Steelworkers
To make sure the new wage-subsidy aid goes to workers and is not eaten up by employer profiteering, the program needs a principle of ‘workers first.’
Federal Government’s Response for Workers to COVID-19 Is Woefully Insufficient: Steelworkers Union
The United Steelworkers calls for an increase to the employee wage subsidy to 80% as adopted in the U.K.
CORONAVIRUS: A Guide for USW Canadian Members
COVID-19, the disease caused by the new, or “novel” coronavirus, is spreading in Canada as of March 19, 2020.
Workplace Issues During COVID-19
There are a number of steps that employers can take to improve the health and safety of workers during this time.
Federal Government Response to COVID-19: Announcement on March 18, 2020
On March 18, 2020, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced additional measures to combat the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
In Face of COVID-19 Pandemic, Steelworkers Humanity Fund Contributes $220,000 to Food Banks Across Canada
To support the most vulnerable in our communities during COVID-19, the Steelworkers Humanity Fund is contributing $220,000 to 112 food banks and community food centres.
Steelworkers Union Calls for Worker Support and Protection During COVID-19
Time away from work to stop the spread of the virus should not mean loss of income, regardless of job or workplace. Unpaid job-protected leave doesn’t pay the bills.
COVID-19 Recommendations: Postponing Local Union Meetings
With the recent announcement by the World Health Organization that the Corona Virus / COVID-19 has been declared a pandemic, it is recommended that local unions postpone or cancel any meetings that are scheduled to occur in the near future.
Hard-Won First Contracts at Two Chartwell Retirement Facilities
After their employer, Chartwell, stalled negotiations in a failed attempt to weaken their resolve, workers at two retirement facilities in Alberta have officially become USW members with their first ratified collective bargaining agreements.
Steelworkers Humanity Fund Contributes $7,000 to Support Communities Affected by Volcano in the Philippines
Members from USW Local 8327 at Park Place Retirement Home in Ottawa approached the Humanity Fund to support victims, many of the local union members being of Filipino heritage.
Letter to the Prime Minister About Rail Blockades
USW National Director Ken Neumann expresses grave concerns to the prime minister about the rail blockades that are threatening jobs and asks that the prime minister find a resolution and demonstrate a genuine commitment to reconciliation.
USW Leaders Welcome Lily Chang to Team Unite CLC
The USW Canadian Directors welcome Lily Chang to the Team Unite CLC slate and offer our endorsement of Lily’s candidacy for Secretary-Treasurer of the Canadian Labour Congress (CLC).
USW Continues Its Call to Stop the Killing and Enforce the Law
On the first anniversary of a mining disaster in Brazil which killed 250 workers, the United Steelworkers union continues its call to stop the killing and ensure proper enforcement of the law.
USW Endorses Team Unite for CLC Leadership Race
USW leaders have thrown their support behind Bea Bruske and Siobhan Vipond for Canadian Labour Congress President and Executive Vice-President at the upcoming CLC Convention in Vancouver (May 4-8).
Steelworkers Union Hails Victory in Aluminum Dumping Case
“This is a welcome victory for all Canadian aluminum workers. We need to continue to push for further protections for both the steel and aluminum sectors.” - Ken Neumann