TORONTO, Nov. 23, 2018 /CNW/ – Unifor has joined the Don’t Let Go Canada coalition calling on the federal government to develop a long-term space strategy.

“The federal government was an early investor in the iconic Canadarm and RADARSAT Technologies,” said Jerry Dias, Unifor National President. “Our space sector can have a strong future, but just as in the past, it will require dedicated funding and a long-term strategy.”

Don’t Let Go Canada coalition consists of 40 companies,  associations, labour groups and academic organizations from the aerospace sector. The coalition aims to raise awareness of Canada’s current leadership role in space and encourage future investment into the growing space economy.

“Competition for good jobs and investments in the high-tech space sector is becoming more fierce around the world,” said Renaud Gagné, Unifor Quebec Director. “Maintaining our advantage will take collaborative planning from industry, labour, and all levels of government.”

According to latest figures, in 1992 Canada was 4th in space funding as a share of GDP among G7 countries. By 2016 Canada was last, tied with the United Kingdom. Canada’s space sector generates over $5.5 billion in annual revenue and contributes $2.3 billion to the country’s GDP.

Last April, Unifor members from across the country working in the aerospace sector met with Members of Parliament to discuss the union’s sector strategy and offer concrete recommendations. Unifor believes the federal government has a significant role to play in ensuring the long-term viability of Canada’s space industry, which is a source of good jobs, economic activity in multiple regions, and cutting-edge innovation.

Unifor represents 11,000 aerospace workers across Canada, and is the country’s  largest union in the private sector, representing 315,000 workers in every major area of the economy. The union advocates for all working people and their rights, fights for equality and social justice in Canada and abroad, and strives to create progressive change for a better future.

SOURCE Unifor