CUPE warns of ‘difficult year’ for public services

CUPE is warning that 2026 could be a challenging year for public services in Newfoundland and Labrador, citing funding cuts, staffing shortages and an increased reliance on private contractors.

In a statement issued Jan. 14, CUPE Newfoundland and Labrador president Sherry Hillier said union members across the public sector are reporting what she described as growing pressure on services through reduced funding, service reductions, public-private partnerships and the expanded use of artificial intelligence.

“Our government is systematically deconstructing the public service,” Hillier said, pointing to changes at Memorial University, the use of private contractors in public housing, and the increased reliance on travel nurses.

CUPE said job vacancies are going unfilled for months in many sectors, leading to heavier workloads for employees and reduced service levels for communities.

The union also raised concerns about the province’s integrated ambulance system, which merged public and private services under private management. CUPE said staffing shortages persist and that rural communities are reporting longer wait times. The union noted the system is funded through a long-term contract valued at about $560 million.