Quebec Independent Community Action Network Supports Public Sector Workers' Mobilization
On November 20, on the eve of the three-day walkout of some 420,000 workers in the public and parapublic sectors, the Quebec Network of Autonomous Community Action (RQ-ACA) issued a press release declaring full support for their struggle. It states:
"The
deterioration of public services that we have been witnessing
for years
is the result of budgetary austerity and reforms which have
particularly impacted the most marginalized and vulnerable. This
has
only exacerbated social inequalities," says Hugo Valiquette,
president
of the RQ-ACA. "Recognizing the value of the work of the people
who are
on the front lines every day to help the population requires
decent
salary conditions. If the government really wants to promote the
importance of this essential network, it will take an investment
that
meets the needs."
The RQ-ACA, which has been mobilized for more than 20 years for greater social justice, is concerned about the progressive weakening of public services. "Over the years, the pressure on community organizations has only increased to compensate for the inadequacies of the public network. And this, while the community sector is also out of breath due to insufficient funding and the growing scarcity of labour. It's time for the government to take care of Quebec's social safety net," declares Caroline Toupin, coordinator.
Public services are essential to the realization of human rights. Privatization and pricing of services, which the government seems to idealize, are not viable solutions if we want to ensure that everyone has access to quality services.
"The Quebec state must preserve the universality of its services. And, as an employer, it has the responsibility to ensure decent working and living conditions for its workers," concluded Mr. Valiquette.
The RQ-ACA recalls that public services are largely carried out by women who work in various care professions, too often poorly recognized, underpaid and in difficult working conditions. He offered his full solidarity to the mobilizations taking place within the context of negotiations with the government of Quebec.
(Quotations translated from original French by TML.)
This article was published in
Number 60
- December 3, 2023
Article Link:
https://cpcml.ca/WF2023/Articles/WO10605.HTM
Website: www.cpcml.ca Email: editor@cpcml.ca