Letter mischaracterizes Bill C-377

Dear Editor,

I’d like to take this opportunity to respond to the letter by John MacDonald on May 26.

It’s ironic that Mr. MacDonald speaks of the transparency of unions, yet fails to mention that he is the first vice-president of the Durham Region Labour Council. It is also ironic that his letter comes on the heels of the news that the Durham Region Labour Council’s brother organization, the Ontario Federation of Labour, has been assigned a financial administrator to run its affairs due to alleged mismanagement of its expenses. As an MP, my expenses are reported online.

Overall, Mr. MacDonald’s letter provides a misleading characterization of a letter I have sent to constituents. The letter in question is about a bill before Parliament, C-377, regarding union transparency.

First, as an MP, it is important to let constituents know about bills before Parliament. Second, in no way does my letter attack unions or union members. The letter discusses concerns that have been addressed to me by various union members that their union uses their dues on non-core union activities.

Thirdly, contrary to what Mr. MacDonald claims, nowhere in the letter do I say that unions should not be involved in politics. Bill C-377 makes no attempt at preventing unions from engaging in, or spending money on, political activities. It only requires public disclosure about union spending on these activities, like other organizations and charities that receive substantial public benefits.

I support the discussion that has been raised regarding union transparency. That is why letters were sent to my constituents, and I welcome their feedback.

Colin Carrie

Oshawa MP