The trade union leaders accept this, and that is completely unacceptable. Workers have seen wage roll backs, downsizing, increased hours, and a loss of stability in their jobs over the past 10 years. The stress is unbearable and causing many health related problems, particularly in the situation of the nurses. Things cannot continue on this way, something has to give. The notion that there isn t enough money in society to provide the conditions that the nurses or any other workers demand is ludicrous.
Corporate profits are at record levels, there is more than enough money available.
The truth is that giving public sector workers a decent settlement is no longer compatible with capitalist society. The workers need political and union leaders who will fight capitalism to provide these things. The nationalization of the pharmaceutical companies and other health related industries would open up millions of dollars to provide what the workers need and a quality, properly funded health care system. The strike has also shown that the class struggle will cut across the national divide and the issue of Quebec independence. Joseph Facal, Quebec Minister for Constitutional Affairs even stated that the issue of independence was not relevant at this time, and support for separation has slumped.