The Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of Labour is urging the provincial government to use a “people-centred” focus ahead of the 2022 budget.

Federation President Mary Shortall and other members met with Finance Minister Siobhan Coady on Monday to discuss the upcoming budget and economic recovery.

During the meeting they delivered three key messages to the minister: They should say no to privatization, no to austerity measures—such as cuts to public services and programs, and yes to a strong economic recovery that protects workers and the most vulnerable, and invests in people and services.

The Federation highlighted issues of poverty and inequity, fisheries issues, and our unemployment rate—which they call the “real crisis facing the economy.”

They say government must adopt a “decent jobs for all” strategy, focusing on young workers, newcomers, green jobs, and those who need to transition as the labour market shifts.

As well, they say the provincial tax system must be rebalanced to ensure those with the highest incomes contribute to debt reduction.