IAM Canada – IAM Union International Representative Matthew Barnable Elected Second Vice-President of the New Brunswick Federation of Labour

The IAM Union proudly celebrates the election of its own Matthew Barnable as Second Vice-President of the New Brunswick Federation of Labour (NBFL). The election took place during the NBFL’s recent convention, where delegates from across the province gathered to chart a path forward for organized labour in New Brunswick.

Matthew Barnable, an International Representative with the IAM, has long been a committed advocate for workers’ rights. His election to the NBFL executive represents a strong endorsement of his message and vision for the future of the labour movement.

In a statement following his election, Barnable said:

I am honoured to be elected by the delegates at the convention to serve as Second Vice President to the New Brunswick Federation of Labour. My message to the delegates came from my belief in getting back to grassroots unionism. We must mobilize our own members, educate, grow, and build a broader, more inclusive labour movement. We must simplify, go back to basics and get to work. We face the scourge of scab unions that raid and undermine workers, anti-union governments, and International trade barriers, but we have a chance of revitalization for Labour in Canada. I believe that message resonated with the delegates. I have full faith in newly elected President Chris Watson and the rest of the new executive, and look forward to working with them to improve the lives of workers in the province. I am forever grateful for my union the IAM, for the constant support and for preparing me for this role.”

Barnable joins a new leadership team committed to advancing the interests of working people in New Brunswick. Alongside President Chris Watson, newly elected Secretary-Treasurer Nicholas Maltais (PSAC), First Vice-President Catherine Little (New Brunswick Nurses Union), and other key members of the executive, Barnable will help shape the NBFL’s priorities in the months and years ahead.

The IAM extends its heartfelt congratulations to Matthew Barnable and looks forward to seeing the positive impact of his leadership within the NBFL and beyond.

IAM Canada – Bernie Wood Honoured with Art Coulter Award for Outstanding Labour and Community Service

The IAM Union is proud to announce that International Representative Bernie Wood received the prestigious Art Coulter Award at the Annual Labour Community Awards ceremony, an event hosted by United Way Winnipeg in collaboration with the Winnipeg Labour Council. This award is given each year to a trade unionist who has made an outstanding contribution to the lives of working people and the Winnipeg community through volunteerism, activism, education, and support for United Way.

Bernie has been a tireless labour activist, deeply engaged in empowering workers and strengthening communities. His work with United Way Winnipeg includes volunteering on the United Way Cabinet and the Labour Executive Committee. He is also a member of the Board of Directors for the Community Unemployed Help Centre, a partner agency of United Way Winnipeg.

In addition to these roles, Bernie serves as the 2nd Vice President of the Winnipeg Labour Council. Over the years, he has played an important role as the Canadian Labour Congress representative to Manitoba, forging strong connections between labour and United Way. Today, as an international representative for the IAM Union, Bernie continues his advocacy with dedication.

Bernie lives by the IAM Union motto, “Justice on the job and service in the community.” His commitment goes beyond union work; he actively promotes United Way initiatives and generously volunteers his time. Bernie also supports Indigenous groups in Winnipeg by sharing resources from his hunting activities, helping them create protective gear for Indigenous youth.

Colleagues and community members alike know Bernie as a reliable friend and advocate, someone always ready to help and make a difference. His contributions to the labour movement and the broader Winnipeg community exemplify leadership and solidarity.

The IAM Union congratulates Bernie Wood on receiving this well-deserved recognition. His passion for fairness, equity, and community service continues to inspire us all.