On Labour Day we celebrate the many contributions of working people who helped to build our country and its economy. Despite negative comments about unions from some business groups, we do make a positive difference in the health of our communities. Our research study highlights 29 separate communities across the country to show the benefits that unionized workers provide. In short, these communities are better places to work and live.

Canada's premiers are meeting this week at the Council of the Federation and a Canadian energy strategy will be on the agenda. A sensible strategy would be one that works for all Canadians, both present and future -- not just Alberta.

Harper has been a great friend to Obama: supportive of the U.S. global warming approach at Copenhagen and Cancun, supporting the U.S.-led NATO mission in Afghanistan, and offering to sell renewable hydroelectric power as well as oil and gas to energize an American economic recovery. But as many have discovered, it doesn't pay to be Obama's friend.