The Benefits of Using Union Labour for City Contracting Out Jobs
When the City of Kamloops needs to use an outside contractor for work that the current city employees are unable to do, it’s standard to take the lowest bid to save taxpayer dollars. The City of Kamloops follows a competitive bidding process for contracting, which is in accordance with municipal and provincial laws. This process aims to provide the best overall value for the city’s services and projects. The operative word in the last sentence is “value”.
Using union labour for contracting out jobs offers numerous advantages that benefit not only the workers but the broader community as well. One of the most significant benefits is the protection it provides to current employees. Union agreements often include provisions that prevent layoffs or reductions in hours for existing workers, thus ensuring job stability and security. This helps maintain a dedicated and experienced workforce, which is crucial for the quality and consistency of the work performed.
Keeping the workforce local is another major advantage of using union labour. Local union workers have a vested interest in the well-being of their community, and their wages are often reinvested locally. This practice supports the local economy by circulating money within the community, thereby strengthening local businesses and services. This economic circulation not only sustains but enhances the community’s overall prosperity.
Moreover, using union labour can promote inclusivity and diversity within the workforce. Unions have programs and initiatives that encourage the employment of underrepresented groups, such as minorities and women. This approach not only enriches the workforce with diverse perspectives and experiences but also ensures that opportunities are accessible to a broader range of individuals, fostering a more inclusive community.
Environmental benefits are another important aspect of using union labour. Because union workers are typically sourced locally, there is less need for long-distance commuting, reducing the carbon footprint associated with transportation. Additionally, unions often advocate for sustainable practices and responsible resource use, which can contribute to greener and more environmentally friendly projects.
The economic benefits are further amplified by the multiplier effect, where the wages earned by local workers are spent within the community, supporting local businesses and services. This creates a positive feedback loop, enhancing economic resilience and fostering a more vibrant and self-sustaining local economy.
In essence, employing union labour for contracting out jobs offers a holistic approach to community development. It supports job security, fosters local economic growth, promotes diversity and inclusion, and contributes to environmental sustainability. These combined benefits make a compelling case for prioritizing union labour in public and private projects alike.
The City of Kamloops has an obligation to its taxpayers to spend taxes wisely in a way that’s going to benefit the people of Kamloops in the best possible way. Think of our local union contractors as a one stop shop for ticking all the boxes that make for a wise decision.
Darryl Schmidt
One of my interests is following technology trends and how they can be implemented in a way that benefits people. I do my best to be a community builder and this website is an example of that 🙂
All comments are my own and may not reflect the opinions of the rest of humanity. I’m trying not to be mean so cut me some slack.
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