Former Hamilton city councillor and NDP MP Matthew Green has accepted a new position with the Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU). Green, now a political and communications specialist at ATU Canada, will focus on advocating for public transit and the working class, aligning with his past priorities during his time in elected roles. The announcement of Green’s role came from ATU on Tuesday, outlining his responsibilities to offer guidance on member-related issues and collaborate with union branches nationwide.
With a membership representing 200,000 transit workers across Canada and the United States, the ATU’s decision to appoint Green signifies a strategic move to leverage his expertise. Despite losing his seat as the Hamilton-Centre MP in the recent election to Liberal Aslam Rana, Green expressed contentment in continuing to reside in Hamilton and embrace his new role within the ATU.
In his dialogue with CBC Hamilton, Green shed light on his reentry into ATU Canada, where he previously worked with the union president, John Di Nino. Notably, the ATU’s active presence in Hamilton, particularly through Local 107 representing Hamilton Street Railway workers, underscores Green’s familiarity with the union’s operations and advocacy efforts. Although city councillors have opposed the union’s stance on operating the forthcoming light rail transit line, Green’s return to ATU was well-received by Eric Tuck, president of ATU Local 107, who commended Green’s dedication to the working class.
Green emphasized the continuity of his mission to enhance people’s quality of life through accessible and reliable public transit services. Reflecting on the impact of federal budget allocations on public transportation, Green stressed the need for more detailed investments, particularly in operational funding for municipalities struggling with financial constraints. He scrutinized the budget’s reduction in federal government workforce and cautioned against the potential repercussions on essential services and local governments.
Regarding the federal budget’s pending approval, Green highlighted the necessity for bipartisan support to ensure its passage. Expressing concerns over potential opposition and the risk of a snap election, Green called for collaborative efforts to secure majority backing for the budget, emphasizing the accountability of Prime Minister Mark Carney and the Liberal Party in garnering necessary support.