For immediate release - October 6, 2022
EDMONTON –The president of Alberta’s largest union – the Alberta Union of Provincial Employees (AUPE) – says that regardless of who leads the United Conservative Party and sits in the Premier’s office; he’d like to see a change in tone when it comes to respecting the rights of working people.
“The disrespect with which this government has approached labour relations is unlike anything I’ve seen,” says Smith, who has been AUPE President since Ed Stelmach was Premier.“We’re willing to turn the page and approach our relationship from a basis of mutual respect and would hope the new Premier is willing to do the same.”
“There’s a reason our union is non-partisan. We know that we mustbe prepared to stand up for the rights of our members and fight to maintain the vital services they provide to Albertans regardless of which party or premier is in power,” adds Smith. “And that is precisely what we will continue to do.”
Smith, who has met with previous premiers, says he would welcome an opportunity to meet with Ms. Smith (no relation).
“The relationship between AUPE and the Government of Alberta is important because the work our members do is important to all Albertans,” he notes. “Governments of all stripes often forget that AUPE members live and pay taxes and vote in this province, too. We all want what’s best for our families and communities. If the new premier would like to set aside the rhetoric and talk about how we can work towards that same goal, I’d be more than happy to sit down and talk.”
AUPE is Alberta’s largest union, representing more than 95,000 members working in government, health care, education, boards and agencies, municipalities, and private companies.