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Letter: ‘Union jobs save lives’

Private sector companies ignore rules to cut costs, save money.
Black Press Media
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Premier John Horgan has followed through on his March promise to return B.C.’s major public infrastructure projects to a “closed shop” for selected international trade unions, starting with the replacement of the Pattullo Bridge. (Black Press files)

Editor, The News:

Re: ‘Unionized work will cost B.C. taxpayers big time.’

Regarding the letter criticizing union jobs and how they will cost taxpayers money, I have to respond to Cherryl Katnich’s ill-informed comment.

For one, union jobs save lives by following labour laws and health and safety regulations. Many private sector companies ignore these rules to cut costs and save money.

I know, I just quit one because of it ignoring proper safety regulations to cut costs.

And I can tell you workers lose their lives at these sites.

I personally know of one young man who lost his life because proper safety regulations were not being followed.

Why, because this company was too busy trying to make a profit and please their right-wing employers. Profits before human lives and safety.

I worked in a union job for 30 years at hospitals, and we followed and enforced all labour laws and safety regulations. We did not have workers injured at our work sites.

So, I agree with the premier’s efforts to encourage union jobs, which pay better wages and benefits, which workers need for their families.

And remember, these workers spend this money in our communities, thereby benefiting local economies.

Open your eyes and mind to a better world, one not run by greed and profits at the expense of workers. Share the wealth and make it safe for our workers.

John E. McKenzie

Maple Ridge