Friday, September 7, 2012

Labour Day celebrated across the province

CUPE Saskatchewan
September 3, 2012



REGINA – Over 2, 000 people attended the Labour Day event held by the Legislative Building today in Regina enjoying the warm weather, free barbeque, entertainment and many booths offering prizes, treats and family friendly activities. Similar events were held across the province honouring the union movement’s dedication to improving working conditions and creating a better standard of living for everyone.

In Canada, Labour Day was first celebrated in 1872 when a strike by the Toronto Printers’ Union inspired a parade in support of their cause that grew to 10,000 people - one tenth of the city’s population. The printers were seeking a shorter work week at a time when working 12 hour or more every day of the week was common. Workers also faced harsh working conditions with very low pay and no legal protections or rights. When Labour Day was declared an official holiday in 1894, it was only the second holiday observed in a year.

Many of the benefits first won by unions are enjoyed by all workers today, including maternity leave, vacation pay and occupational health and safety laws. When unions stand up for fairness, they raise the bar for everyone

1 comment:

  1. Great job...!!! Labours and workers are the backbone of all business organizations. We must provide them with adequate facilities for better health at the workplace. Occupational health and safety laws must be followed in all organizations.

    Workplace Safety

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