Letters from the president

On April 28th, we commemorate the National Day of Mourning. This day serves as a reminder of those who have died, been injured, or fallen ill due to their work.

This week is Rail Safety Week. It’s an important time to educate the public about the basics of rail safety by, for instance, reminding everyone never to approach tracks except at designated grade crossings. Additionally, it’s important to always remain alert near tracks: trains can pass at any time, are quieter than ever, and can take kilometers to come to a full stop. 

I am happy to announce that I have appointed Sister Mariam Abou-Dib as Executive Director of Teamsters Canada. This appointment is in line with the reorganization of Teamsters Canada’s administrative services, which aims to maximize the use of our resources and our employees’ expertise to ensure that all matters requiring action from the national office are covered. This change is effective as of today.

By Francois Laporte, president of Teamsters Canada Today is Labour Day, and I would like to take a moment to address those who wrongly believe that unions, union members and workers in general contribute to...

April 28 is the National Day of Mourning, a day to remember those who died or were injured in the workplace. It is also a day we must all recommit to improving health and safety and preventing tragedies in all workplaces.

The official theme for this year’s International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, ‘Voices for action against racism’, speaks to the essence of the rights and respect we fight to uphold as union members.

On March 11, 2019, COVID-19 was officially declared a global pandemic. 24 months have passed, and we are not yet able to take full stock of its impact. That endeavour will take many more years. To date, more than 37,000 Canadians have passed away from the virus, including some of our members, relatives, grandparents, and friends. To all the families who have lost a loved one, we offer our condolences and our support. 

Please accept my most heartfelt wishes for a Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays and a Happy New Year. May the next twelve months bring each and every one of you good health, happiness, prosperity and endless moments of joyous memories to come.

National Trucking Week is underway until September 11.

My message to you during this 2021 federal election campaign is first and foremost to exercise your right to vote on September 20, 2021. I will not tell you who to vote for as Teamsters Canada is a non-partisan organization. I will, however, tell you what we have been advocating for on your behalf as Teamster members so we can all make informed decisions before we cast our votes.