BC Voters Show Confidence in NDP

Even though it could take some time before the nearly half a million mail in ballots are counted, voters in BC appear to have elected a majority NDP government for the first time since 1996.

Premier elect John Horgan and the NDP are projected to win in 55 of B.C.’s 87 ridings, compared to 29 for the Liberals and three for the Green Party.

Heavily involved in the NDP’s resurgence in Richmond, including moderating a virtual IAM member town hall, recently retired IAM Grand Lodge Representative Ron Fontaine stated, “with this victory, an NDP government can fulfill their mandate to support working families in British Columbia”.

The BC NDP recognized the importance and potential of B.C.’s aerospace industry, already a key economic generator in the province. Their election platform promises support for the industry by providing more training opportunities for the next generation of aerospace workers, as well as partnering with the industry to open up new global markets.

Air transportation has suffered greatly during the pandemic. If the damage continues, the aerospace industry will suffer collateral losses. The IAM will not stand by and let this happen.

“Canadians deserve better,” Stated General Vice President Stan Pickthall. “Air Canada has been Canada’s National Airline for many decades, and we are pressing the Federal Government to invest in this valuable resource. A strong Air Canada will provide a strong market for Canadian-made aerospace products.”

The IAM is calling on all levels of government to support investment in Canada’s air transportation industry, and the hundreds of thousands of Canadian jobs that flow from this important industry – from the airport workers and providers, hotel and hospitality workers, to Canada’s crucially important aerospace sector.

“We have had a strong working relationship with the NDP at every level and in every jurisdiction. We are pleased with the outcome of BC’s election, and we look forward to continuing the great work that the Horgan government has done during their first mandate.” Concluded Pickthall.