IN another boost to federal NDP leadership hopeful Jagmeet Singh, Canada’s IAMAW (International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers) that represents more than 40,000 Canadian workers endorsed him on Wednesday.
A day earlier, the United Food and Commercial Workers Union that represents over 250,000 workers across the country had announced its support for him.
Stan Pickthall, IAMAW Canadian General Vice President, said in a statement: “I am proud to announce today that the IAMAW is endorsing Jagmeet Singh for leader of Canada’s New Democratic Party.”
He added: “This decision came after a lengthy and engaged debate of the IAMAW Canadian leadership. We agreed that all four candidates were strong NDP leaders, and it is great to have so many good political activists to choose from.
“But ultimately, the message was clear. We are looking for someone to grow this party. Not just for the next election, but beyond. Jagmeet Singh is our choice.”
Pickthall said: “Jagmeet connects to people. He’s a campaigner who can reach out and pull voters in, and that’s what we need to combat the Liberals. He has been there with us on our issues and we are proud to support him for Leader of the NDP.”
The IAMAW (International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers) represents workers in air transport and a wide range of manufacturing including aircraft, auto parts, autobuses, aerospace, electronics, light and heavy machinery, tools and appliances. They are the largest airport security screeners union in Canada, and also represent a growing number of workers in the healthcare and hospitality sectors as well as office, technical and other white collar workers.
Pickthall said: “IAMAW Canada is encouraging our membership to come together and support Jagmeet Singh as the next leader of the federal NDP.”
He added: “Please take a moment and commit to vote Jagmeet for NDP Leader here: jagmeetsingh.ca/commit.”