The federal government is pushing for new powers that could make it easier to end legal strikes and harder for workers to win fair wages and better working conditions. We need as many workers as possible to meet with their MPs before Bill C-39 becomes law.
Every meeting, letter, and call adds to the pressure to protect our right to strike. Use these tools to organize your workplaces and communities now!
What’s happening?
As part of Bill C-39, the federal government is proposing new and expanded powers that could make it harder for workers to strike and bargain for a fair deal. This includes changes related to Section 107 of the Canada Labour Code.
Many of Canada’s largest corporations are making strong profits while workers struggle with the rising cost of living. These changes would make it easier for big companies to keep wages low and harder for workers to fight back.
What new powers would the government get under Bill C-39?
Bill C-39 explicitly writes the power to end a legal strike into Section 107 of the Canada Labour Code.
What should MPs do?
Our demands are clear: Protect the right to strike. Repeal Section 107.
These changes don’t affect me. Why should I care?
This is not just about what happens during a strike. The power to end a strike can affect bargaining before a strike ever happens. If a company believes the government will step in and end a legal strike, the employer has no reason to negotiate. That tips the balance at the bargaining table.
When workers win better wages and working conditions at the bargaining table, they raise the bar for workers everywhere. That’s why these changes are bad for all workers.
My MP claims these changes will only affect a small number of workers
These changes impact far more than the workers directly affected by a strike. Not only do they make it harder for those workers to fight for decent wages and a fair deal at work, they set a dangerous precedent for other governments. Once workers lose rights in one place, it becomes easier for Doug Ford, Danielle Smith, Scott Moe, and others to do the same thing in their provinces.
My MP claims Bill C-39 will create more labour peace
Taking away the legal right to strike does not make a labour dispute disappear. It risks pushing workers toward wildcat strikes and more uncertainty. Canada’s largest union has already said it will defy the law if these restrictions pass.
How can I learn more?
You can read the CLC’s detailed briefing note on Bill C-39 here.