FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: FFAW-Unifor Look Forward to Reiterating Priorities with Re-elected Liberal Government

March 27, 2021 – Members of FFAW-Unifor congratulate Newfoundland and Labrador’s Premier Andrew Furey with a call for stronger support from the Liberal government to address the challenges facing the inshore fishery, and for all workers in this province, especially in a time of economic rebuilding.

“Like many other industries, the fishery in our province has been impacted by circumstances surrounding the global pandemic. What is needed most right now is a champion for our inshore fishery who is committed to creating opportunities for rural Newfoundland and Labrador, and securing safe workplaces for all workers” says Keith Sullivan, FFAW-Unifor President.

During the last election, the Liberal Government made several commitments to FFAW-Unifor members, including improving transparency in price negotiations, investing in young harvesters, and ensuring sustainable and secure work in the local industry, particularly by eliminating barriers to new entrants, created by corporate concentration. There remains much work to do to accomplish these goals.

FFAW-Unifor had the opportunity to meet with Premier Furey during the Virtual Lobby Week in January to discuss the main areas of concern for their membership, and what the Union believes the provincial government can focus on to improve the livelihoods of workers throughout the province. A key focus for the Union in these discussions was the need for transparency and fairness in fish price, the importance of supporting young fish harvesters and independent owner operators, as well as increasing minimum wage, and standardizing PPE equipment.

“We look forward to speaking with Premier Furey in the coming days to reiterate the priorities identified by FFAW-Unifor members. Provincial government must show leadership and commitment to our inshore fishery as we continue to navigate our way through these challenging times,” concludes Sullivan.

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For media inquiries, please contact:

Courtney Langille, Communications Officer

(709) 693-8454

clangille@ffaw.ca