Irene Lanzinger to run for BC Federation of Labour President

VANCOUVER, Oct. 17, 2014 /CNW/ - Irene Lanzinger, current Secretary-Treasurer of the BC Federation of Labour and past President of the BC Teachers' Federation, announced today that she is running for President of the Federation representing half a million unionized workers across BC.

"After four years as Secretary-Treasurer I want to continue our collective efforts in growing the BC Federation of Labour and supporting all workers," said Lanzinger. "Whether or not people are union members, I believe the BCFed can help them assert their rights to safe jobs and good working conditions. Over the years, the BC Federation of Labour has become an incredibly influential voice for union members, but also people like farm workers, temporary foreign workers, and apprentices who need our support as well. I am excited to have the opportunity to run for President and build on that work."

Lanzinger, who started her teaching career in Abbotsford, has over two decades of experience in elected leadership roles at the local and provincial levels. She has been President of the Vancouver Secondary Teachers' Association, chief negotiator for the BC Teachers' Federation, and President of the BCTF before her first election as the BCFed's Secretary-Treasurer in 2010.

In announcing her campaign, Lanzinger was joined by several labour leaders and union members from both the private and public sectors. Together, they articulated three broad platform planks—good jobs, safe work, and a Federation for all workers—to help grow the union movement and its influence in BC and across Canada.

"At a time when income inequality in Canada is worsening, it is the labour movement, working with other progressive groups, that has the strength and reach to make change for the benefit of all Canadians," said Lanzinger. "Through lobbying, negotiating for better wages and benefits, and fighting for the rights of all workers, we can make a positive and lasting impact on the lives of thousands of working families.

"By using our strengths in organizing and campaigning, we can build new alliances with other social movements and help us achieve our common goal of a more equal and fair society."

In endorsing her campaign, outgoing President Jim Sinclair praised Lanzinger's proven experience and track record as an elected leader and outspoken advocate for workers.

"We are all fortunate to have someone of Irene's calibre and experience willing and ready to take on the role of President of our Federation," Sinclair said. "Irene came to the BC Fed as a respected union leader of a large affiliate and in the past four years as Secretary-Treasurer she has shown time and time again she is a true leader. She is smart, hardworking, articulate, and committed. As President of the B.C. Federation of Labour she will do a great job on behalf of working people in our province. "

You can read her full platform at IreneLanzinger.ca.

SOURCE: Federation of Post-Secondary Educators of BC

please call Phillip Legg at 604-788-2877.