Health Care activist Barbara Nederpel acclaimed as new Labour Council president

NEWS/ LABOUR — The Kamloops and District Labour Council has a new president.

Peter Kerek has stepped aside, with first vice president Barbara Nederpel taking over as of Jan. 6.

Nederpel is a front line health care worker and advocate.

“Labour has been so instrumental in the creation of Medicare and public health insurance, and they continue to stand behind Canada’s most treasured social program,” she said.

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Nederpel has plans to help the labour council continue developing its relationships with the vibrant community groups working for a better city, region, province and world.

“Labour groups in and around Kamloops have strong working relationships with groups like the Council of Canadians and Kamloops Health Coalition,” Nederpel said.

“But there is more we can do to engage union members to also get more active in key community issues like protecting Medicare and promoting environmentally responsible industrial projects.”

The Council has plans to revitalize its website and to use its Twitter and Facebook platforms to more effectively reach members and the community.

They also plan to continue the annual Labour Day Picnic. “This was our day to celebrate and educate about who we are and it was the best attended (last year) and most well run event we have ever had.”

In looking ahead to an exciting year, Nederpel said, “2015 is an important year, with a federal election to mobilize union members to become more active in electing a government that supports a strong working class under a strong environmental policy.”

Regarding Kerek’s time as president Nederpel said, “Peter’s contributions to the council have opened doors to create a closer relationship with the community. We need to carry on that legacy.”