Notley speaks at CUPE conference
NDP leader Rachel Notley appeared at the annual CUPE convention on Friday as a speaker, to touch on issues that concern many members.
“I’m so pleased to join CUPE Alberta today for your 74th annual convention here in Medicine Hat,” said Notley. She noted that while the local MLA, Premier Danielle Smith, was invited, there was a conflict that prevented her attendance, but she was “quite pleased to be here in her place, in her own backyard.”
Notley spoke briefly on her decision to step down as the leader of the NDP, which she said she believes is best for the future of the party, but stressed how proud she was to have served Alberta as premier previously, and to see what the party will focus on moving forward.
“I want you all to know that I’m also forever humbled and grateful for the support of this organization over these last 10 years. I want to thank all of you for everything CUPE members have done to make lives better for all Albertans,” said Notley. “This union is one of the strongest in Canada. You have an excellent leadership team. You’re growing your membership. You’re fighting for fairness in your contracts and winning. You’re showing up for Albertans every day, even when it’s hard.”
Notley commented that she, alongside the NDP, have great concerns for the province, especially in fields that see many CUPE members, such as healthcare work and education.
“I never thought I would miss Jason Kenney but here we are,” said Notley. She highlighted issues such as the budget revealing a 6.2% rate of inflation and population growth, with a 3.9% increase in services.
“AHS, which is now responsible only for managing acute care hospitals, received only a 1.3% increase in the face of a 6.2% population and inflation growth this year,” said Notley. “Our hospitals and our health facilities are understaffed, and in fact now are going to remain so with a planned, budgeted shortfall of 2800 required staff.”
Among other issues, a lack of new schools being built to handle the number of students going through the public system, was highlighted, and the rising cost of living were also noted. Notley assured CUPE members, however, that regardless of which candidate is elected to lead the party, they will continue to work to achieve their promised goals.
“I believe that the change Alberta needs is still coming.
It’s just going to take us a little bit longer,” said Notley. “Right now, we have a lot of work to do. As we get ready for that change. We need to be prepared. We need to be organized when the time comes. We need to be ready to win the fight.”