The president of the Alberta Federation of Labour (AFL), Gil McGowan, has announced that unions will mobilize workers angered by the provincial government’s suspension of bargaining rights to participate in recall campaigns and prepare for a potential general strike.
Speaking at Ironworkers Hall in Edmonton, McGowan informed supporters and media on Wednesday that they will initiate the process of organizing for a potential general strike in Alberta. He emphasized the need for discussions with union leaders and non-unionized workers to assess the feasibility and readiness for a general strike involving workers from various sectors who would collectively withhold their labor.
While confirming that the decision to initiate a general strike is not immediate, McGowan expressed the start of the journey towards that possibility. The Alberta government swiftly passed the Back to School Act, compelling 51,000 public, Catholic, and francophone teachers back to work.
Following a strike by teachers over salary concerns and classroom conditions, the legislation imposed a new contract that had been previously rejected by nearly 90% of educators. The Back to School Act utilized the notwithstanding clause to suspend teachers’ collective bargaining rights, prohibiting legal challenges by the Alberta Teachers’ Association.
Canadian Labour Congress president Bea Bruske declared solidarity with Alberta workers, cautioning that any infringement on rights and freedoms in one province poses a threat to all workers nationwide. The potential of a general strike in Alberta was discussed in response to the government’s actions.
McGowan highlighted the union’s objective to challenge the United Conservative Party government and encouraged workers to engage in ongoing recall campaigns aimed at removing UCP MLAs from office. Additionally, AB Resistance is assisting citizens in organizing recall campaigns, including one targeting Education and Childcare Minister Demetrios Nicolaides.
The Finance Minister, Nate Horner, downplayed concerns about the AFL’s plans, characterizing them as preliminary steps without concrete actions. He emphasized that no public sector workers are legally striking at present, with penalties enforced for unauthorized strike actions. Amidst ongoing negotiations with healthcare worker unions, the government remains cautious of disruptions to essential services.
The UCP government faces growing opposition, with critics alleging the potential misuse of recall legislation to expedite an early general election. Nally highlighted the importance of democratic processes, acknowledging the challenges and complexities inherent in the current political environment.
In conclusion, the labour movement in Alberta is actively strategizing and mobilizing workers in response to the government’s actions, with the potential for further escalation, including a general strike, being considered as a means to uphold workers’ rights and challenge legislative decisions.
