A Letter from the President

As you are aware, Premier Tim Houston introduced a damaging budget that directly threatens the livelihoods of hundreds of public sector workers, as well as cuts millions in funding from important community based social programs that many of our members deliver, and many more of our community members rely on.

Last week, we held a rally at the Legislature to protest this budget, and many of you turned up! Thank you for coming out to join us and have your voice heard.

We also launched an e-action, asking members to send a message to their MLA, Premier, and Opposition leaders to voice their concerns about the budget. If you’ve not done so yet, please send a message: https://win.newmode.net/novascotiagovernmentandgeneralemployeesunion/protectourpublicservices (keep in mind that your messages should not attack government policies, programs or officials, and that you do not use your government email or equipment to participate).

Our work is not done, though.

This week, a number of community groups are holding rallies – not just at the Legislature in downtown Halifax, but throughout the province. I am asking that you make an effort to attend one of these rallies over your lunch break. It is critical that this government sees a strong, unified voice of opposition to these harmful cuts.

As the elected leader of this union, I can and will be doing everything in my power to push back, but the reality is this: together, we are stronger and have a much better chance of effecting change.

The rallies we are aware of at this time are as follows:

Tuesday, March 3^rd

• “Shoulder to Shoulder: We are all Treaty People,” Halifax, Nova Scotia Legislature (Granville Street entrance), noon

Wednesday, March 4^th

• “Rally for Arts & Culture,” Halifax, Nova Scotia Legislature (1726 Hollis Street), noon
• “Rally for Arts & Culture,” Sydney, 360 Prince Street, noon
• “Save Arts & Culture,” Wolfville, Clock Park, noon

Thursday, March 5^th

• “Save Arts & Culture,” Truro, meet at Civic Square & march to Minister Ritcey’s office, 1pm

Please come out and show your support to your fellow community members!

In solidarity,

Sandra Mullen
President, NSGEU