Patrick (Sid) Ryan

OFL PRESIDENT

Sid Ryan was elected president of the Ontario Federation of Labour (OFL) in November 2009. He came to office on a three-point program to build labour unity, social solidarity, and a new economy.

Ryan is committed to building a broad social movement to make advances on issues that affect the day-to-day lives of all working people, unionized or not, including better income distribution, housing, access to education and training, and child care supports. He is dedicated to leading a united labour movement and to pursuing a comprehensive strategy to rebuild Ontario’s industrial base, put people back to work, and protect public sector jobs. He emphasizes the strong link between environmental sustainability and job creation.

As head of the OFL, he draws on more than 30 years of activism and leadership on labour, political, and economic issues. He has served as an OFL vicepresident and general vice-president of the executive board for the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE). The OFL works with affiliated unions representing more than a million Ontario workers to build a society that responds to the needs of people, their families, and communities.

Ryan’s social justice roots trace back to Ireland where he grew up, and his union life in Canada, first as a Steelworker, then a member of the CUPE. He became a shop steward when he went to work for Ontario Hydro in 1976. He has been a formidable voice in Ontario for decades, achieving profile and results as president of CUPE Ontario from 1992 to 2009.

With a firm grasp of many issues, Ryan is seen frequently in the media. He appears regularly on Michael Coren Live and CHEX TV Durham and is a frequent guest on TVO’s current affairs programs. For three years, he wrote a weekly column for the Toronto Sun and continues to be a guest columnist in major newspapers.

Ryan is also a pension activist and was a member of the Ontario Municipal Employees Retirement System (OMERS) Administration Corporation Board of Directors. He advocates for workplace pensions and retirement security for all. He is passionate about human rights, and advocates for them at home and abroad. He has worked to promote peace in Northern Ireland and the Middle East, and received a human rights award from the Canadian Arab Foundation for his efforts.

He holds the Confederation of Canada Medal, which is presented to Canadian citizens for their contributions to the good of the community and society.

Back to speakers

 

 

Home   |   Agenda   |   Register   |   Speakers   |   Sponsor   |   Contact Us   |   Cancellation Policy