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Delegates support dues increase for Federation The AFL is getting a much-needed financial boost thanks to a decision by convention delegates on May 4th to increase per capita dues from 73 to 83 cents. The resolution to increase dues was put forward by the AFL’s Executive Council to help lessen the financial hardship caused by the sudden loss of dues revenue from AUPE. "This per capita increase will not solve all the problems," said AFL Secretary Treasurer Les Steel. "But it will stop the bleeding." Unlike per capita resolutions considered by previous conventions, this resolution passed unanimously. "Our affiliation to the Federation is money well spent," said Tom O’Leary from CUPE Local 38 in Calgary, who rose to support the resolution. This sentiment was echoed by other delegates, including Cindy McCallum from CUPW who said the dues increase should be seen as "an investment in our struggle." "The AFL has a great reputation for taking on enormous struggles on behalf of working people," she said. "It’s absolutely imperative that the work of the Federation continue – and a dues increase will make sure that happens." Delegates also unanimously approved a per capita increase for the Alberta Workers’ Health Centre. Unions affiliated with the centre will now pay an annual assessment of $2 per member – up from the previous levy of $1 per member. |