Happy Holidays!
During this holiday season, our warmest wishes go out to our members who continue to help us move forward. What a year 2015 has been! Throughout the year, we’ve continued to fight for issues that are important to families and communities. As we had discussed during our convention this year, privatization continues to be the biggest threat to our members and their families.
OPSEU has been front and centre in the fight against privatization. Since being elected to a majority government, the provincial Liberals have been introducing a secretive privatization agenda. Whether it be the sell-off of Hydro One, Social Impact Bonds, or the wasteful P3’s, we will continue to fight against any privatization schemes. We can’t let this government get away with their disastrous campaign to put the province’s key assets up for sale. We still have time to stop these schemes, but we need your help to keep fighting and make your voice heard.
Our members continue to work hard and provide the very best in services to Ontarians. Let’s not forget our brothers and sisters at Local 294 who showed great strength and returned to work a few weeks ago, eight months after their strike began. Please keep in mind our Corrections sisters and brothers who are facing the fight of their lives with a ham fisted employer.
I invite all OPSEU members – all 130,000 plus of us – to make an extra special effort to enjoy the festive season. As 2015 draws to an end many of us will enjoy taking time to celebrate the holiday season. This time of year is important for many people as they mark their special traditions, cultures or religions. Enjoy the sense of community, friendship and love that sets the tone for this time of year. Share the best of who you are with those you love and most importantly stay safe!
Above all, take this time to refresh yourself and prepare for the challenges ahead in 2016. I thank you all for your commitment and for making 2015 a year to remember. I wish you and your family a safe, joyful and restful holiday season.
Season’s Greetings!
In Solidarity,
Warren (Smokey) Thomas
President