Ontario needs a bold strategy
March 23,2009
Times are tough, and Ontario needs a bold strategy to
provide good, green jobs for its citizens.
Many of our cities and towns are reeling under the pressure
of recession. Families are being torn apart as breadwinners lose their jobs.
Now’s not the time for cutbacks and restraint; it’s time to
spend some money and get things rolling again in the economy.
Historically, in tough times, only the public sector has the
wherewithall to take the lead.
Ontario’s economic history is full of examples of government
initiatives resulting in a vibrant, affluent economy: from the promotion of
cheap hydroelectric power in the last century, the welcoming of millions of
immigrants from all over the world to work here, to the creation of our
progressive community college and university system that ensures we have a
well-educated workforce.
With private-sector unions reeling under massive layoffs in
the manufacturing sector, OPSEU must pressure government to take a more
active role in the economy. That’s why our Executive Board members and
sector leaders are promoting a five-point plan in favour of rebuilding
public services and taking a lead in building a green economy for Ontario.
It’s time to rally our creativity in an economic round table
of labour, business and government to devise a made-in-Ontario, good jobs
strategy.
The recent tabling of take-aways by the LCBO management in
negotiations with OPSEU sends a far different message. With more than 750
stores and warehouses across the province, the LCBO is well-placed to help
lead the economy by providing stability for our communities and revenue for
the province. Instead, the LCBO seems focused on making things worse.
The McGuinty government must send out the correct signals,
after years of negative thinking inspired be the Harris Tories. It’s time
the government and other public sector employers like the LCBO, colleges and
hospitals took a pro-active approach.
The McGuinty Liberals to show some leadership in the future
of our economy towards fostering good, green jobs for all. The alternative,
more cuts and restraint, is neither palatable nor helpful.
This week’s provincial budget will tell the tale.
In solidarity,
Warren (Smokey) Thomas
President
