Letters from the president

April 28 is the National Day of Mourning, a day to remember those who died, or were injured or made ill, from their work. It is also a day people are asked to recommit to improving health and safety and preventing tragedies in the workplace.

Transportation workers are the backbone of our economy and are essential to delivering food and medical supplies across the country. It’s a job made even more crucial by the current crisis; you went as far as to thank “delivery folks, […] truck drivers, train conductors and so many others” during your press conference on Sunday.

The COVID-19 pandemic is global. We are facing one of our greatest challenges, but it’s not the first time that collectively and individually, we are faced with adversity. I notice, with satisfaction, that we are already showing solidarity and compassion for one another.

As 2019 draws to a close, I would like to wish all Canadian Teamsters happy holidays!

As president of Teamsters Canada, I encourage all members of our union to go out and vote. Our democracy depends on it, and so do the interests of all Teamsters and workers. Politicians simply don’t listen to those who can’t be bothered to take 20 minutes to cast a ballot on October 21 or on any of the advance polling days.

The 2019 Teamsters Women’s Conference kicked off today in Montreal. Over 1,200 Teamsters from across North America are in town for the three-day annual event, which provides the opportunity for empowerment and education for women in our union.

Labour Day, it’s a time to celebrate and honour the victories that workers have made, and to call for continued progress.

Teamsters have a new home in Canada! Earlier this month, the new Teamsters Canada National Office was dedicated in Laval, Québec. The five-storey building is owned entirely by Teamsters Canada and its members. The union...

Being a Teamster is about more than negotiating collective agreements and taking care of grievances. It’s also about building up our communities and lending a hand to those in need. That’s why we’re proud...

François Laporte, president of Teamsters Canada, spoke at the Quebec Energy Association’s convention which ended today. He pledged the union’s support for energy projects that create good jobs.