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The dismantling of Canada's Submission to the Regarding the Proposed Changes
April, 1996 The Alberta Federation of Labour (AFL) and the Edmonton & District Labour Council (EDLC) welcomes this opportunity to present our concerns regarding proposed changes to Canada's Unemployment Insurance system. As you may already know, the AFL is the largest labour central in Alberta, representing 110,000 workers from 43 affiliated unions. Our affiliates are organized in 250 locals, with members in virtually every town and city in Alberta. The EDLC represents about 30,000 workers in dozens of unions and locals. Together our members can be found working in all sectors of the economy — from hospitals and schools to the oil and gas industry. The Federation's mandate since its founding in 1912 has been to speak for and protect the interests of union members in Alberta. Historically, the AFL and the EDLC has spoken out on behalf of working people on a wide range of issues including minimum wages, work time and occupational safety. Clearly, we have a direct and vital interest in any legislative changes that could affect working Alberta. The proposed changes to UI definitely fall into that category. On the next few pages we will summarize our concerns about the new legislation and we will provide suggestions for alternative action where we think it is necessary. Once again, we thank you for providing this opportunity to voice our concerns.
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