Steelworkers Local Union Presidents Back Former Fernie Mayor Randal Macnair for BC NDP Kootenay East Nomination

SPARWOOD, BC, Sept. 26 2016 /CNW/ - Presidents representing all four United Steelworkers (USW) locals in East Kootenay are announcing their unanimous support for former Fernie Mayor Randal Macnair as the BC NDP candidate for Kootenay East in the 2017 provincial election.

"Randal understands that working people are the backbone of the Kootenays," said Alex Hanson, president of USW Local 9346. "Whether it's our retiring members who want to ensure health-care services remain accessible in their communities or our young members demanding quality schools for their kids, they have a voice in Randal Macnair."

"As a mayor and councillor in Fernie, Randal has a demonstrated history of collaboration and consensus building that allowed our community to grow. We need that same spirit representing us in Victoria," said Nick Howard, President of USW Local 7284. 

"Unions and good wages are the key to maintaining a good quality of life in the East Kootenays. Randal gets it," said Doug Singer, President of USW Local 1-405.

"Whether in mining or forestry, Randal's respect for working people and his own history working in the resource sector show he understands the balance between using our natural resources to develop good-paying jobs and protecting our natural heritage so we all have a region to work, live and play in," said Don Takala, President of USW Local 7884.

Macnair welcomed the Steelworkers endorsement. "Whether fighting for decent wages or to protect the health and safety of working people, or their commitment to community, the Steelworkers have a proud history in our region and I'm equally proud to have their endorsement," Macnair said.

To learn more about Macnair's campaign, please visit www.randalmacnair.com.

SOURCE United Steelworkers (USW)

Alex Hanson, 250-425-0131; Brad West, 604-313-9185