The president of the Alberta Federation of Labour (AFL), Gil McGowan, has announced plans for unions to mobilize workers following the provincial government’s suspension of bargaining rights. McGowan stated that workers are encouraged to participate in recall campaigns and prepare for a potential general strike.
Speaking at the Ironworkers Hall in Edmonton, McGowan informed supporters and media that the labor movement will initiate efforts towards organizing a potential general strike in Alberta. He emphasized the need for discussions with union leaders and non-unionized workers to gauge interest and logistics for a widespread work stoppage involving various sectors of the economy.
While ruling out an immediate strike, McGowan emphasized that the process towards a general strike has commenced. The Alberta government swiftly introduced and passed the Back to School Act in response to the teachers’ strike, compelling 51,000 teachers back to work.
The legislation leverages the notwithstanding clause to suspend teachers’ collective bargaining rights and prevent potential strikes until September 2028. Canadian Labour Congress president Bea Bruske expressed solidarity with Alberta workers, highlighting the importance of defending workers’ rights nationwide.
McGowan aims to mobilize workers to engage in recall campaigns targeting United Conservative Party (UCP) MLAs to challenge the government. The Common Front, a coalition of 24 unions under AFL, has aligned to support these efforts. Additionally, AB Resistance is assisting citizens in organizing recall campaigns, including one targeting Education and Childcare Minister Demetrios Nicolaides.
McGowan called on individuals to participate in signature collections for a referendum on public funding for private schools by texting “resist” to 55255. Meanwhile, Finance Minister Nate Horner downplayed concerns over potential strikes, emphasizing that no public sector workers are currently authorized to strike legally.
The UCP government faces opposition from various fronts, with labor groups and citizens mobilizing to challenge recent legislation. Despite the political tensions, Alberta prepares for potential labor actions as parties on both sides gear up for potential confrontations.