CUPE congratulates Avi Lewis on becoming new leader of Canada's NDP

WINNIPEG--(BUSINESS WIRE)--CUPE congratulates Avi Lewis on his election as federal NDP leader at the party's convention in Winnipeg. As Canada's largest union, CUPE is ready to get to work with Avi and the NDP to strengthen public services, fight corporate greed, and build a fairer and more equitable Canada.

"The Liberals and the Conservatives are in lockstep when it comes to worsening inequality and eroding public services. It’s clear there is no progressive future in Canada without a strong NDP," said CUPE National President Mark Hancock. “With a new leader at the helm of Canada’s labour party, now is our chance to build stronger public services for our communities and bigger paycheques for workers.”

“Public services hold our communities together and are a necessary building block for any credible ‘elbows up’ strategy,” said CUPE National Secretary-Treasurer Candace Rennick. “We can build an alternative to the misguided Liberal approach of cuts and privatization, but to do that we need strong voices standing up for public health care, child care, housing, and fair wages. CUPE members are ready to work with Avi and the NDP to advance bold policies and solutions that put people before profits.”

CUPE also congratulates Rob Ashton, Tanille Johnston, Heather MacPherson, and Tony McQuail for bringing their voices to the campaign to reinvigorate Canada’s labour party.

Finally, CUPE extends its gratitude to NDP MP Don Davies, who has served as interim NDP leader since last spring, for his efforts supporting CUPE members and workers in Parliament and on picket lines across Canada.

CUPE represents 800,000 workers in front line public services nationwide.