Day 3 of CUPE Nova Scotia’s 2024 Convention began with the Officer’s Breakfast. As delegates enjoyed their meal, CUPE National President Mark Hancock and Secretary Treasurer Candace Rennick spoke to delegates about the dangers that a Pierre Poilievre led government would pose to the labour movement in Canada. On a lighter note, they also gave away prizes to lucky delegates whose names were drawn.
CUPE Nova Scotia President Nan McFadgen officially started business for the day by sharing the good news of federal anti-scab legislation finally being passed last night. She also lamented the fact that our provincial government has been reluctant to pass similar legislation of their own.
Floyd Seymour then introduced CUPE National Secretary Treasurer Candace Rennick, who began her address by noting the long and proud history of CUPE in Nova Scotia. She thanked Nan for her leadership, on both the national and divisional level, making note of her ability to be both strategic and practical, as well as her drive to get things done. Rennick also thanked CUPE Nova Scotia’s Secretary Treasurer Donna van Kroonenburg for her work as a CUPE National Trustee, and CUPE Nova Scotia’s outgoing Vice-President Dianne Frittenburg for her years of service. Rennick went on to note that members had not fully recovered from the COVID-19 pandemic, and that their frustration and anger with their financial circumstances and the state of the country and world were palpable. This was partially responsible for a recent resurgence in the labour movement, and increased worker militancy. The substantial DCS and childcare sector victories were also touched on, although it was noted that there was much work left to do. Finally, Rennick spoke about CUPE’s 2024 budget, providing details and explanations of what was being spent, and the significant effect this spending was expected to have in various crucial areas.
Next at the podium was CUPE Nova Scotia’s Secretary Treasurer, Donna van Kroonenburg. Donna provided delegates with a detailed breakdown of the division’s finances and explained the differences between the general and defence accounts.
The Solidarity Fund was bolstered by generous donations from several locals, which totalled $8,550. This was then more than matched by a $10,000 contribution by CUPE National, announced by Mark Hancock and Candace Rennick.
The Trustees report was then presented by Joel O’Neil, Jess Haley and Steve Joy. They noted that they found the books to be in good order.
Tammy Jakeman then introduced the leader of Nova Scotia’s New Democrats, Claudia Chender, who delivered a hopeful and inspiring address to delegates. She presented a compelling case for why her party was the only one that has always had the backs of working people, and gave an informative description of her plan to address the many pressing issues faced by working people and Nova Scotians at large.
The Sean Foley Health and Safety Award was presented by Steve Joy to Glenn MacPhee and the Health and Safety Committee.
Delegates continued to vote on several resolutions and constitutional amendments.
A Human Rights panel led an emotional discussion on invisible disabilities, which clearly resonated with many delegates.
Finally, Carl Crouse led the election of new members to the following committees:
- Health and Safety
- Contracting Out and Privatization
- Education
- Global Justice