BC FORUM News - From The Advocate, Autumn, 2019

Pharmacare, respect for workers

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On eve of federal election, political issues dominate at BC FORUM annual meeting

Each and every one of us can make a difference was the underlying theme of Laird Cronk’s speech to members at BC FORUM’s annual general meeting this summer.

Cronk – President of the BC Federation of Labour and Chair of BC FORUM – said there were significant challenges, particularly with the Green Party, in moving ahead on needed improvements to the Labour Code and employment standards.

“We came to BC FORUM for help on our Workers Deserve Better campaign and it was done! You are tremendous advocates. Thumbs up to you,” he said.

The campaign’s achievements include successor rights for health care workers, an end to contract flipping, and tougher employment standards to protect children.

Presenting the Board of Directors’ report, President Diane Wood said, “While we have made progress in some areas, thanks to the BC NDP government, it remains critically important for BC FORUM members to join us in advancing the issues that affect us and our families at the national level.

“We ask you to help us grow stronger by signing up a friend, relative or co-worker. Take home a few application forms from this meeting. Or use the one that’s printed in The Advocate,” she said.

Members debated and adopted four resolutions on issues that affect older workers, retirees and our families. BC FORUM will:

• Encourage members to vote for federal candidates who commit to implementing single payer national Pharmacare.

• Call for a National Seniors Care Strategy with dedicated federal funding and standards for public long term care, home care and palliative care.

• Call for a universal public program to cover medically necessary dental care for all Canadians.

• Work with allies to lobby all levels of government to eliminate hospital parking fees, which are indirect user fees and a barrier to care.