From all of us at IBEW Canada, we wish you and your families a happy and safe Victoria Day long weekend!
MoreAnnouncement
IVP Shewchuk Statement on Federal Election Results
The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Canada is the largest electrical industry stakeholder in Canada, representing nearly 70,000 skilled tradespeople across the electrical industry and various related sectors, all vital to building and maintaining Canada’s infrastructure and powering its economy.
The past month has been a whirlwind of debate, discussion, and decision-making as Canadians from coast to coast to coast engaged in the democratic process. In casting their ballots, Canadians have exercised their right to choose the direction of this great country.
On behalf of our nearly 70,000 IBEW members across Canada, I extend our sincere congratulations to Prime Minister Mark Carney and the Liberal Party of Canada on their recent electoral victory.
As outlined in our pre-election statement, IBEW Canada remains committed to collaborating with the federal government to advance key priorities for our members. We call upon Prime Minister Carney to: enact and enforce comprehensive prevailing wage legislation; invest in apprenticeship and training opportunities; uphold the Rand Formula; build an east-west energy corridor including electrical transmission; and to ensure timely and fair collective bargaining processes.
We look forward to working closely with Prime Minister Carney’s administration to build a sustainable, inclusive economy that values the contributions of skilled tradespeople and ensures no worker is left behind in the transition to a net-zero future.
In solidarity,
Russ Shewchuk
International Vice President
International Brotherhood of Electrical Worker (IBEW) Canada
National Day of Mourning
The Day of Mourning is an annual day of remembrance for workers who have been killed and injured on the job; the aim of this day is to publicly renew the commitment to fight for the safety of the living as well as mourn for those workers who have died.
The National Day of Mourning, held annually on April 28, was officially recognized by the federal government in 1991, eight years after the day of remembrance was launched by the Canadian Labour Congress. The Day of Mourning has since spread to over 100 countries around the world and has been adopted by the AFL-CIO and the International Confederation of Free Trade. The IBEW was originally formed by workers who wanted to improve safety in their workplace. Our union was formed on the need for safety at a time when 1 in 2 electrical workers were being killed on the job every day; even our own founding President Henry Miller died from a workplace incident. Today, safety continues to be a main focus of our Local Unions mandate; safety is paramount to the IBEW!
On April 28, we remember those who lost their lives, as well as the thousands of others injured; because for them, life will never be the same. On Monday, April 28th, mark the ‘Day’ by flying flags at half-mast; wear ribbons or black armbands, or whatever your traditional vigils/ceremonies are, and observe a moment of silence at 11am, as we remember those killed or injured at work and recommit to the challenge of preventing, reducing and eliminating workplace deaths and injuries.
We must mourn the dead, but we must also fight for the living!!
MoreMessage from IVP Shewchuk – Easter Greetings
Brothers and Sisters,
On behalf of all the staff at IBEW Canada, I want to wish you and your loved ones a safe, joyful, and restorative Easter.
This season of renewal reminds us of the power of community, resilience, and hope. Whether you’re keeping the lights on, building essential infrastructure, or supporting the systems Canadians rely on every day, your work makes a real difference.
Easter is also a time to pause and reconnect not only with family and friends, but also with the purpose that brings us together as IBEW members: solidarity, fairness, and a better future for all workers.
Thank you for all that you do. Happy Easter!
In solidarity,
Russ Shewchuk
International Vice President
IBEW First District, Canada 🇨🇦
***** WINNERS ***** 2024-2025 IBEW First District Scholarships Award
Thank you to everyone who submitted their names and essays for the 2024/2025 IBEW First District Scholarships Award; we received entries this year from 261 applicants.
A random draw was made on Friday, February 14, 2025, at the First District Office, and the following winners are:
Karah Isabelle Bulaqui – Local Union 213, Vancouver, BC
Ian Arthurs – Local Union 502, Saint John, NB
Jacob Xue – Local Union 424, Edmonton, AB
Maddison Pye – Local Union 1928, Halifax, NS
Shane Sturby-Highfield – Local Union 2034, Winnipeg, MB
Xavier Quimpére – Local Union 37, Fredericton, NB
Lindsey Sjolin – Local Union 1687, Sudbury, ON
Eve Marian Gallant – Local Union 1555, Moncton, NB
Maariya Patel – Local Union 353, Toronto, ON
Eve Mullin – Local Union 37, Fredericton, NB
Congratulations to these ten applicants!!!
We, at the First District Office, along with our sponsors,TD Insurance Meloche Monnex, MWG Apparel and AIL, wish all the winners a successful year in their continued education.
MoreFamily Day Message from IVP Shewchuk
Brothers and Sisters,
As we approach Family Day, I wish to extend my warmest regards to you, your members, and your families.
This holiday is a time to celebrate the invaluable bond of family and the strength it gives us. Let us cherish these moments and reflect on the importance of unity, both at home and within our IBEW community.
Your dedication throughout the year brings light to many, making this celebration even more meaningful. Enjoy this well-deserved time with your loved ones.
Happy Family Day!
In solidarity,
RUSS SHEWCHUK
International Vice President
IBEW First District, Canada