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Many Canadians think of libraries as safe, public spaces. And that’s true most of the time. But research and recent media reports show that health and safety hazards exist in libraries for workers and patrons alike. In this fact sheet, Workplace violence in the library sector, we identify risk factors and offer tips to help prevent violence in libraries.

CUPE recognizes that housing is a fundamental human right and has called on the government to prioritize non-market housing solutions by making significant investments in social housing. CUPE has also urged the federal government to make sure the National Housing Strategy is on track to secure adequate housing for all people living in Canada. Unfortunately, homeless encampments (tents and non-permanent structures) have become common in communities across Canada as the housing crisis has continued to worsen over the last few years. Many CUPE members are now being required to dismantle and remove the material that is left behind once the residents have been removed.

Budget 2024 makes small tweaks to address big issues facing the country. Many of the changes announced are moving in the right direction, but some still reflect an over-reliance on market-led approaches that have failed in the past. There are also some promising proposals that will need more details before we can fully evaluate them.