Members in PEI have thrown themselves into the Medicare campaign with full force. At a recent canvass planning meeting in Charlottetown, rank and file CUPE members made up at least 1/3 of the volunteers present. Door-to-door canvasses are underway in every part of the Island. Every member will receive the Medicare tabloid in their workplace and will be asked to have (at least) 5 postcards signed and returned. CUPE Staff Representative Bill McKinnon has been coordinating many of the efforts and reports very high interest in the campaign.
Members see the urgency on this issue and know what’s at stake. Frank Robinson, President of Local 805, and an active campaign member, says, “It’s obvious that without a stronger stance by the federal government – backed up with a serious funding commitment – the governments of Ontario, Alberta and British Columbia will privatize and destroy the national public health care system.”
And the public agrees. People who want to share their experiences and their fears about the health care system greet canvassers warmly on doorsteps. Members are hearing “Glad you’re out there fighting for us” more often than they can count. Why are CUPE members so dedicated to this campaign? Donalda MacDonald, PEI Division President says, “CUPE members are out in full force, determined to keep our public health care system out of the hands of privateers. That’s their motivation. That’s what they’re about.” For more information on actions in PEI contact Donalda MacDonald or Bill McKinnon at (902) 566-4006.