Montréal, QC – With an eye toward the upcoming federal election, the Conseil des Machinistes du Québec held its fourth Political Action Day June 29 and it was a huge success.
“It was great to see so many NDP Members of Parliament and new candidates out to meet with IAM members,” said Eric Rancourt, IAM Local Lodge 712 Vice President and President of the Conseil des Machinistes du Québec. Thirteen sitting members and six candidates from Québec spoke with more than 90 CMQ members, sharing ideas and strategies for the next federal election.
“It’s easier for our members to help out in campaigns if they know the candidate,” said Dave Chartrand, IAM Grand Lodge Representative and Québec Coordinator. “They now have that personal connection. That’s the major benefit of this political action conference.”
Hans Marotte, NDP candidate in the riding of St-Jean and a lawyer for Mouvement Action Chômage de Montréal, was the keynote speaker. He focused his remarks on the importance of being involved in political action and some of the mechanics of being able to run an election campaign, including campaign financing.
“Our members have made it very clear that the Conservatives under Stephen Harper have to go,” said Rancourt. “The only choice for Québec IAM members and Québec trade unionists is the NDP. Now is the time for all Machinists and trade unionists to join together to defeat Stephen Harper.”
