A recent survey conducted in Quebec reveals that 74% of residents believe that union activities should focus on defending their members. Additionally, 68% think that it should be the members’ prerogative to determine how their union dues are used. These findings come from a study by Léger on behalf of the Centrale des syndicats du Québec (CSQ), in anticipation of an upcoming union system reform proposed by Minister of Labour, Jean Boulet.
Minister Boulet aims to enhance transparency and accountability within unions, especially concerning the allocation of union dues for purposes beyond member defense. CSQ President Éric Gingras addressed these statistics, emphasizing that union discussions on topics like the provincial budget, pay equity, and school violence are based on members’ interests. He clarified that while these issues may not directly relate to collective agreements, they impact union members’ lives, and ultimately, it is the members who make the decisions.
