As Toronto pulls out of the 2008 – 2009 slowdown, one of the biggest challenges will be to ensure that the infrastructure funding in last January’s federal budget, which was supposed to provide “targeted and timely” economic stimulus reaches Toronto on time to create jobs in 2010.  Working with our International we have lobbied and fought for infrastructure funding on projects like water treatment plants, hospitals, schools and many other ICI developments.  In fact, our Pension Plan has jointly funded many projects with Ellis-Don creating work for our membership.  Although many projects have been in the planning stages, we must continue to lobby all three levels of government to fast track permits and red tape so we can put the shovel in the ground and get our members to work.

During the past few years we have also worked hard with the Ontario Central Building Trades and the Toronto Labour Council (which we have re-affiliated with in October of 2009) to lobby the Federal  Government for Employment Insurance Reform.  There is a slight possibility the Conservatives, under pressure from the three Opposition Parties and the Premiers of Ontario and the three Western Provinces will broaden employment insurance coverage, allowing more laid-off workers to collect benefits.

For some Torontonians, the recession will soon be a memory.  Real Estate sales are picking up.  The investment outlook is improving.  Economists are sounding increasingly positive.  But Toronto will need strong leadership to keep our economy strong.  Mayor David Miller recently announced he will not be seeking reelection in 2011.  It is extremely important that we elect a Mayor that is labour friendly and one that understands by building a Cities infrastructure we are stimulating and protecting jobs.  Currently there is speculative of four candidates interested in the position of Toronto’s Mayor and I assure you we as leaders of Local 506 are following this closely.  I ask you as members when the time comes, get involved!  Your involvement in political action can ensure we elect the type of individual that will put priorities on things like schools, hospitals, safe workplaces and decent jobs.

As this newsletter is dedicated to our 90th Anniversary, I would be remiss if I did not pay tribute to our forefathers as they have shown us the importance of political action through their struggles.  So while our Executive Board is keeping an eye on the future, we have never forgotten our past.