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TORONTO - Canada’s largest union is offering its congratulations to Thomas Mulcair on being elected leader of the federal New Democratic Party. The Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) is pledging its support to Mulcair, and is committed to helping make him Canada’s first New Democrat Prime Minister.

New Democrats have made an excellent choice to lead our party,” said Paul Moist, national president of CUPE. “I am confident Thomas will be a strong and determined voice for Canadian workers.”

Mulcair was elected on the fourth ballot at the NDP convention, yesterday in Toronto, becoming the NDP’s seventh federal leader in its 50 year history, and Leader of the Official Opposition.

CUPE, and the entire labour movement, has a deep and meaningful commitment to the NDP. We have shared values on fundamental issues – the importance of our public services, the need to defend and strengthen our public health care system, and the goal of a fairer and more equitable Canada,” said Moist. “I look forward to working closely with Thomas on this shared vision of a better Canada.”

CUPE is also congratulating the other candidates for a leadership race based on ideas and thoughtful debate. “Each of the candidates should be proud of their campaigns,” said Moist. “They have all shown Canadians the high level of talent and dedication we have on our NDP team, and that we have a better option for our federal government.”

Moist, on behalf of CUPE’s over 618,000 members, thanked Nycole Turmel for serving as interim leader. “We were all taken aback by the sudden loss of our brother Jack Layton, but Nycole stepped up in a difficult time and offered the leadership and guidance our party needed,” said Moist. “We all owe her our gratitude and heartfelt thanks on a job well done.” 


For more information, please contact:

Greg Taylor, CUPE media relations (613) 818-0067 or gtaylor@cupe.ca