CAW Urges New Government to Support Improvements to CPP and Economic Stimulus

TORONTO/SAINT JOHN, Sept. 28 /CNW/ - The CAW is calling on the newly-elected New Brunswick provincial government to join with other provinces in supporting changes to Canada Pension Plan legislation.

CAW President Ken Lewenza said that provincial governments have an important leadership role to play in ensuring that Canadians can retire in dignity. The union, along with the Canadian Labour Congress, has been calling for the gradual doubling of the CPP benefit.

"When the provinces regroup on this issue, it's critical that New Brunswick Premier-elect David Alward and his government support the call for improvements to the CPP and promote meaningful changes to CPP legislation," said Lewenza.

Lewenza also reminded the New Brunswick Premier-elect that the best way to reduce the provincial deficit is to grow the economy. "Without the creation of good jobs, the deficit cannot be reduced in a sustainable fashion," Lewenza said.

"The Liberal government made a number of grave missteps, including nearly selling off NB Hydro, which would have been a disaster for the province," said Lewenza. "New Brunswickers have spoken by kicking that government out of office. The new Progressive Conservative government must not make the mistake of trying to sell off crown corporations or cutting public services. The people of this province will clearly not tolerate it."

The CAW represents approximately 2,000 members in New Brunswick.

For further information:

please contact CAW Communications Shannon Devine (cell) 416-302-1699 or CAW Atlantic Region Director Les Holloway (cell) 902-497-2909 or Jenny Ahn (cell) 416-271-3489  CAW Director, Membership Mobilization and Political Action