2 Canadian unions move toward merger

Union officials in Toronto Wednesday laid out plans for what could become Canada's largest industrial union. Representatives of the Communications, Energy and Paperworkers Union of Canada and the Canadian Auto Workers union issued the final report from a joint committee that explored the creation of a combined union. "In this report, our unions are mapping out the way to a new union that will focus on advancing the interest of all Canadian workers," CAW National President Ken Lewenza said. "This blueprint has the potential of giving working Canadians the strength they deserve to fight for their basic rights." If a merger is finalized the new labor organization would represent more than 300,000 workers across Canada, union officials said in a release posted on the CEP Web site. The proposal also would open the door to membership for "temporary agency, contract and other precarious workers, as well as unemployed workers and students," officials said. "The proposal for a new union was built on principles of democracy, transparency and progress for working people," CEP National President Dave Coles said. "This report is the first step towards reaching out beyond traditional workplaces and increasing the political influence of working people in Canada." The final report will be put up for a vote by members of both unions at their respective conventions. The CAW convention will b in Toronto Aug. 20-24 and the CEP convention will be in Quebec City Oct. 14-17.