Delegates and staff opened their hearts and wallets and raised about $128,000 in cash and pledges to assist 43 CUPE Devco workers who will lose their jobs when the Cape Breton mine closes next month.
$14,131 was raised in cash, and CUPE National will match this amount. Locals and divisions pledged an additional $97, 000.
Canada 3000 members became the heroes of the day, when they graciously declined pledges of financial aid, insisting that all donations go to the Devco workers. Their sacrifice brought some delegates to tears.
Donations can be channeled through CUPE National. Specify on your cheques: “Re: Local 2046-DEVCO.”