Multiple industry and labour sources tell CTV News they have been told to get ready for the introduction of significant labour legislation as soon as next week. A senior government source says plans are underway to introduce such legislation following a review of the Canadian Labour Code that began in April.
According to the sources, the legislation comes after a big push from federally regulated industries to provide more stability and predictability in places like ports, railways and air travel. All have seen work stoppages in the last few years.
The sources tell CTV News the legislation will be aimed at introducing binding arbitration before strike action is taken. Industry’s message to the government was that its traditional tool to use for binding arbitration, Section 107 of the Canadian Labour Code, can only be applied too late in the labour dispute process and from its perspective, does not adequately prevent the damage caused from a work stoppage
I don’t think this is going to go in favour of the unionized workers under federal jurisdiction…just my impression. This is heading in the direction of the American system where employees under federal legislation are unable to strike or even bargain collectively. Not good.
Can’t wait for all the liberals to come out and defend the revocation of labour rights with great takes like “We are in unprecedented times, we have to make tough decisions.” Naomi Klein’s shock doctrine is on the money yet again.
Here comes the big litmus test. Does MC stand for Marx Carney or Master Card. Place your bets!
“I can stand here and say that we will never interfere with a worker’s right to bargain or to strike,” Hajdu said in response.
“But …we do all agree that there are circumstances where better tools are needed to both foster relationships and employer union relationships that are struggling, and to also help resolve resolutions in a way that leads to longer-term industrial peace.”
“I can stand here and say that we will never interfere with a worker’s right to bargain or to strike…But I won’t.”
Do we all agree, Patty? I don’t recall ceding my voice to you.
Let me say two things that are going to sound good to different groups of people with the hope they don’t hear the parts not meant for them.
She’s an embodiment of the basic class contradiction. 😄
