The Canadian National Federation of Independent Unions (CNFIU) is a strong and solid alternative to the traditional union structures that have dominated the Canadian labour movement for many years.

CNFIU was founded in 1979 by the Officers of a number of Independent Canadian Unions from across Ontario. In recognizing the advantages of pooling their resources and networking with other Independent Unions across Canada, the leaders of these Independent Unions developed and accepted the first Constitution of the Canadian National Federation of Independent Unions on May 10, 1980.

CNFIU was formed to assist Independent Unions in maintaining and protecting the integrity of their independence within the Canadian labour movement, and to establish an organization where all Independent Union representatives could access extensive resources, training and education in all areas of union representation.

Since CNFIU was launched in 1980, its mandate has expanded to encompass the needs of unorganized employees who require assistance and guidance in forming their own Independent Union under the banner of the Canadian National Federation of Independent Unions within their own workplace. Without the assistance of CNFIU, this option is not financially realistic for many employees who are seeking union representation but are not prepared to join a traditional union.

In 1997, to facilitate the continuing growth of its membership and to provide extra resources and expertise, the CNFIU entered into a relationship with the Labourers’ International Union of North America Labourers’ International Union of North America, one of the largest and most diversified Unions in the world.

This unique relationship has resulted in CNFIU's members enjoying the best of both worlds. While maintaining its own autonomy, CNFIU continues to protect the integrity of Independent Unions by adopting a structure that allows affiliated Independent Unions, Employee Associations and CNFIU Local Unions to maintain control over their own local union administration and collective agreements. At the same time, members benefit from the backing of an organization with global resources and expertise. This combination is quickly proving to be the most effective and positive type of representation in the history of the labour movement.

Today, CNFIU is a recognized trade union with status at the Ontario Labour Relations Board and the Canada Industrial Relations Board. In 2008, CNFIU expanded into the Province of Alberta and was also recognized as a trade union by the Alberta Labour Relations Board. We are proud to represent thousands of members in a variety of workplaces and industries, in both federal and provincial jurisdictions.

If you are thinking of joining a progressive Union, a Union that gives you the best of both worlds, contact us.